7-9-19 congregation of sisters of st. agnes issues statement denouncing treatment of immigrants and children at southern border

The Congregation of the Sisters of St. Agnes  has issued a statement denouncing the treatment of immigrants at the United States border with Mexico.  A report by the Department of Homeland Security’s  independent watchdog says overcrowded, squalid conditions are more widespread at migrant centers along the southern border than initially revealed.  The report describes standing-room only cells,  children without showers and hot meals, and detainees clamoring desperately  for release.  Sister Ruth Battagalia with the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Agnes says its discouraging and heart breaking.  “Right now it’s the zero tolerance policy of the administration that is not allowing for a more humane way to deal with the situation,” Sister Battaglia told WFDL news.  “They don’t want the people here so they’re going to make it as difficult as possible for them to stay here.  That they should experience this when they come into our country is really shameful.”   The statement says the Congregation denounces in the strongest possible terms the unconscionable mistreatment of immigrants, especially children on the border while in U.S. custody.  The statement calls on elected leaders to take all measures necessary to provide the immigrants with adequate food,  shelter, healthcare, and in the case of the children, to reunite them with their families.  The Sisters and associates of St. Agnes invite the public to join them in a prayer  vigil in support of the detained immigrants and children.  The vigil will be held from 6pm to 7pm Friday July 12 in the Chapel of the Sisters of St. Agnes Motherhouse on County Road K in Fond du Lac.