A group of immigrants and activists for immigration reform chant as they march on Capitol Hill in Washington. (CNS/Jonathan Ernst, Reuters)
By Bishop Kevin J. Farrell
Immigration Reform has apparently become another victim of the Congressional chaos that has replaced common sense at the southeast end of Pennsylvania Avenue. The bipartisan “gang of seven” sponsoring an immigration reform bill in the House has fallen apart, the apparent death knoll for action by the house.
Political polarization appears to have put the kiss of death on any legislation that the president supports without regard to its merits or the public good. Ideological absolutism is a poison pill for the democratic process. It breeds political tunnel vision that is blind to everything save the viewer’s magnificent obsession.
Somehow there must be the restoration of trust, mutual respect and willingness to compromise in both the House and the Senate. Strident voices of petty politicians need to give way to the considerate dialogue of statesmen. Untying the Gordian Knot that is our gridlocked government will require wisdom and leadership, qualities that are sorely wanting in Washington.
We must pray for Congress and for our nation’s leaders and always keep in mind the words of the Holy Father today.
“Don’t let yourselves be robbed of hope”
