Iowa faith leaders are pushing back on anti-immigrant sentiment in the state, highlighting a bill that would have empowered state police to deport undocumented immigrants.
Federal courts blocked the measure, but immigrant advocates say unsettling rhetoric persists. The American Immigration Council says these measures have led to an uptick in Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity and a 50% drop in international immigration to Iowa.
Iowa Catholic Conference Executive Director Tom Chapman said the state should maintain public order, but it needs merciful immigration policy.
"If people are in the United States, and they're working, and they're not causing a lot of problems," said Chapman, "does it make sense, really, to upset the apple cart in that way?"
The American Immigration Council says the state's focus on reducing international arrivals has contributed to a $230 million hit to the state economy.
Iowa lawmakers who pursued the legislation contend the measures are necessary for public safety. Opponents point to the fact that undocumented migrants comprise only 2% of the state's population.
Chapman said increased enforcement activities have prompted some immigrants in Iowa to neglect community gatherings, taking their kids to school, going to work or attending church.
"People are concerned about where they show their faith," said Chapman. "But at the same time, I think people feel that their faith is very important to them, and it's in one sense a safe place for them, and they want to participate."
A handful of immigrant rights groups, including Escucha Mi Voz and Iowa Migrant Movement for Justice, have pushed back on anti-immigrant sentiment in Iowa with public protests and community action.