Washington, D.C.— A coalition of 27 religious organizations has filed a federal lawsuit against the Trump administration, contesting a policy change that permits immigration enforcement actions within places of worship without prior supervisory approval. The groups argue that this shift infringes upon their religious freedoms and deters immigrant participation in religious services.
Key Facts:
-
Policy Change: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rescinded a 30-year-old policy that restricted Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in "sensitive locations," including houses of worship, schools, and hospitals.
-
Legal Action: The lawsuit, filed in February 2025, seeks a permanent injunction to prevent ICE from conducting enforcement activities in places of worship without exigent circumstances or a judicial warrant.
-
Community Impact: Faith groups report declines in worship attendance and participation in social services due to fears of ICE raids.
The plaintiffs, encompassing various Christian and Jewish denominations, assert that the new policy hampers their ability to minister to immigrant communities. They claim it instills fear among congregants, leading to reduced engagement in religious and community services.
In response to the lawsuit, a federal judge granted a preliminary injunction blocking the policy's enforcement concerning the plaintiffs. However, the injunction's scope is limited, and the plaintiffs seek a nationwide prohibition.
The administration defends the policy, stating that enforcement actions in sensitive locations were previously permitted with supervisory approval and that the change merely removes this requirement. Government attorneys argue that the plaintiffs' concerns are speculative and lack evidence of targeted enforcement.
The outcome of this legal challenge holds significant implications for the balance between immigration enforcement and religious freedom in the United States. A ruling favoring the plaintiffs could reinforce protections for sensitive locations, while a decision upholding the policy may lead to increased ICE operations in such areas.
Do You Know? Before this policy change, ICE adhered to a "sensitive locations" policy, avoiding enforcement actions in places like schools, hospitals, and places of worship to ensure access to essential services without fear.
Key Terms:
-
Sensitive Locations Policy: A former ICE guideline that limited enforcement actions in specific locations deemed sensitive, such as schools and places of worship.
-
Preliminary Injunction: A court order issued early in a lawsuit preventing the defendant from pursuing a particular action until the case is resolved.