Pope Leo XIV has urged the United States to continue its tradition of welcoming migrants, highlighting the importance of adhering to the principles of freedom, unity, justice, and peace as articulated in the Declaration of Independence. In a speech from the Vatican, the pontiff emphasized America’s role as a global beacon of freedom, attributed largely to its history of embracing immigrants. His remarks came as he accepted the Liberty Medal from Philadelphia’s National Constitution Center, expressing optimism that these foundational values will steer the nation as it approaches its 250th anniversary.
On the same day, Pope Leo made a visit to the Italian island of Lampedusa, a key entry point for migrants crossing the Mediterranean. There, he engaged with migrants, rescue personnel, and humanitarian groups, reaffirming the Catholic Church’s commitment to supporting displaced individuals. This visit underscored the pontiff’s dedication to addressing the challenges faced by migrants and advocating for their rights and dignity.
The pope also called on European leaders to implement comprehensive migration policies that prioritize the protection, integration, and support of migrants. He stressed the need for strategies that not only address immediate concerns but also work to enhance conditions in migrants’ countries of origin, aiming to curb forced migration by addressing root causes.
While Pope Leo did not directly mention U.S. President Donald Trump, his comments were widely interpreted as a critique of stricter immigration policies in the United States. Throughout his papacy, Pope Leo has consistently advocated for the rights and dignity of migrants, urging nations to adopt compassionate approaches to migration and integration.