North Carolina Faith Groups File Federal Lawsuit Against Trump Administration’s Immigration Enforcement in Churches!

In North Carolina, three faith groups have taken legal action against the Trump administration.

They argue that allowing immigration agents to arrest individuals in places of worship infringes upon their religious freedom.

The groups involved are the North Carolina Council of Churches, the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church, and the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church.

Collectively, they represent thousands of congregations across the state.

Background of the Lawsuit

On January 21, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) revoked a policy that had previously limited immigration enforcement in “sensitive locations” such as schools and churches.

This change has led to increased concerns among religious communities.

The lawsuit, filed in federal district court in Washington, D.C., seeks to prevent DHS and its agents from conducting enforcement actions in or near places of worship.

Concerns Raised by Faith Leaders

Faith leaders argue that the new policy hinders their ability to practice core religious beliefs, particularly the principle of welcoming and aiding immigrants.

They claim that the threat of immigration enforcement in sacred spaces has led to decreased attendance at services and participation in church programs.

For instance, the Rev. Dr. Jennifer Copeland, executive director of the N.C. Council of Churches noted that many Latino immigrants have stopped attending services and utilizing church-offered social services due to fear of arrest.

Legal Arguments Presented

The lawsuit contends that the administration’s actions violate the First Amendment and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act.

Kelsi Brown Corkran, lead counsel for the case, emphasized that the policy places religious institutions in a difficult position: either compromise their religious mission of hospitality or risk exposing congregants to arrest. This situation, they argue, unlawfully burdens religious exercise.

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Government’s Position

The Trump administration defends the policy change by stating that it prevents individuals from exploiting places like schools and churches to evade arrest.

A DHS spokesperson commented that the directive allows law enforcement to perform their duties effectively, ensuring that criminals cannot use these locations as sanctuaries.

Impact on Religious Communities

The policy shift has had a noticeable impact on religious communities. Many congregations have reported a decline in attendance and participation in programs such as food pantries, clothing drives, and English classes.

Faith leaders stress the importance of physical presence in fostering community and express concern that the policy undermines this aspect of their religious practice.

Broader Legal Context

This lawsuit is part of a series of legal challenges by religious groups opposing the administration’s immigration enforcement policies.

Previously, Quaker congregations and other religious organizations filed a similar lawsuit, arguing that enforcement actions in religious spaces violate fundamental religious liberties.

Conclusion

The outcome of this legal challenge could have significant implications for the balance between immigration enforcement and religious freedom.

As the case progresses, it will be closely watched by both religious communities and legal experts.

Reference

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