Just Immigration: American Policy in Christian Perspective

In this meticulously researched study, Amstutz (Evangelicals and American Foreign Policy), a political science professor at Wheaton College, explores complex ethical questions and imperatives surrounding the issue of immigration in the United States. Beginning with an overview of the basic elements of contemporary immigration policy, including key U.S. governmental agencies charged with adjudication and enforcement, Amstutz examines strengths and weaknesses of the current system, as well as difficulties resulting from conflicts among the president, Congress, and the Supreme Court. In addition to exploring ethical issues related to documented and undocumented immigrants, refugees, and children, Amstutz highlights the particular dangers resulting from “the toleration of a large segment of the population living in the shadows.” To address “the conflicting moral, legal, political and humanitarian dimensions of this issue,” Amstutz considers political ethics from Catholic, Evangelical, and Protestant perspectives, reviewing and critiquing recent policy recommendations and pastoral letters from mainline denominations, “in order to provide recommendations for strengthening their moral contribution to the policy debate.” Emphasizing the need for churches to describe “how Christian perspectives apply to the challenge of global migration,” Amstutz offers both cautions and concrete recommendations for faithful engagement, taking a moderately progressive stance. This thoughtful and clearly presented analysis offers rich material for churches to contemplate, opening the door for more balanced consideration of immigration reform. (May)