The Right Rev. Mariann Budde, the Episcopal bishop of Washington, D.C., implored newly inaugurated President Donald Trump on Tuesday "to have mercy upon" communities across the country "who are scared now" after his election.
"There are gay, lesbian and transgender children in Democratic, Republican and independent families — some who fear for their lives," Budde said during remarks at an interfaith prayer service at Washington National Cathedral with the president, Vice President JD Vance and their spouses in attendance.
She noted the work of many immigrants to the U.S. who pick crops, clean office buildings, work in the poultry and meatpacking industries and wash dishes in the hospitality field.
"They may not be citizens or have the proper documentation, but the vast majority of immigrants are not criminals," Budde said. "They pay taxes and are good neighbors. They are faithful members of our churches, mosques, gurdwara and temples."
Budde's comments come after Trump signed executive orders late Monday to declare a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border and pushed for the end the use of an app that allowed migrants seeking asylum to request appointments with American border officials.
"Our God teaches us that we are to be merciful to the stranger, for we were all once strangers in this land," Budde said before closing her remarks.
How many of you actually watch Congressional Hearings? Y’all should be paying attention. Take 5 minutes and listen to @Rep_Stansbury in there fighting the good fight ✊🇺🇸
@PositivePurdue This is not necessarily on the students. They were placed in a completely chaotic and unsafe environment. My Junior daughter described the situation for her as “Fight or Flight”. She was still shaking a half hour after getting into the arena.
@purdueexponent Your above picture is before the rush of students happened creating an unsafe environment. I can attest my two Purdue students were genuinely concerned for their safety. Very thankful that injuries were not more serious.
@JamesKnowsBall_ My daughter and son report it is nearly a trampling situation. So disappointed in the disorganization and worried for the kid’s safety!
.@FitbitSupport @Fitbit they will give me a 25% discount to throw more money away on a product with a less than one year survival record. #imnotevenactive