"I NO LONGER LOVE YVONNE JEGEDE, BUT I'LL RISK MY LIFE TO PROTECT HER" — KUNLE 'ABOUNCE' FAWOLE OPENS UP. (PHOTO).
During America’s 250th anniversary celebrations, Pope Leo XIV used the occasion to remind President Donald Trump of the nation’s immigrant roots. In a letter released Friday, the first American-born pope praised the founding ideals of liberty and democracy but stressed that defending human life also means welcoming and protecting migrants.
He emphasized that newcomers seeking freedom and opportunity have always shaped the country’s character, making compassion toward them both a moral duty and a recognition of human dignity.
The pope’s remarks come as Trump continues to prioritize immigration crackdowns in his second term, highlighting a growing divide between the Vatican and the White House.
Leo criticized policies that expel migrants without addressing the violence and conflict that force them to flee, arguing that simply “washing our hands of the problem” is not a Christian response.
His stance has drawn pushback from Catholic allies of Trump, including Vice President JD Vance, who argued that leaders must also consider the struggles of native-born citizens.
As Trump presided over Fourth of July festivities, Leo traveled to Lampedusa, an island symbolic of migrant crossings, in what Vatican officials described as a counterpoint to U.S. policies.
The pope’s trip underscored his commitment to defending the vulnerable and offering a compassionate vision of immigration.
By contrasting patriotic celebrations with his visit to a migrant gateway, Leo reinforced his message that America’s strength lies not in closing doors but in embracing those who seek refuge.
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