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🇮🇩 Indonesia /Culture & Society

Pope Leo XIV Defends U.S. Immigrant History at 250th Anniversary Celebration

From Tempo · () Indonesian

Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency Context piece
  • Pope Leo XIV defended the United States' history as a nation built by immigrants during an event celebrating the country's 250th anniversary.
  • Speaking from the Vatican, he emphasized America's role as a global symbol of freedom and urged the nation to remain true to its founding principles.
  • The Pope's remarks come amid ongoing debates on immigration policy and a reported feud with U.S. President Donald Trump, who has criticized Leo's stance on immigration and foreign policy.

Pope Leo XIV has lauded the United States' immigrant heritage, describing it as a nation built by "successive waves of immigrants" during a virtual address to the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. The address, delivered ahead of the U.S.'s 250th anniversary on July 4, highlighted America's global reputation as a "byword for freedom."

This historic anniversary presents us with the opportunity to reflect once again on the nation's founding principles in the hope that America will remain ever true to the dream that has earned it the title of land of the free and home of the brave.

— Pope Leo XIVUrging the U.S. to uphold its founding ideals of freedom and opportunity.

"This historic anniversary presents us with the opportunity to reflect once again on the nation's founding principles in the hope that America will remain ever true to the dream that has earned it the title of land of the free and home of the brave," Pope Leo XIV stated, referencing the U.S. national anthem. He also stressed the Church's commitment to protecting the vulnerable and upholding the sanctity of life, touching on the Vatican's stances against abortion and euthanasia.

During the event, the Pope was honored with the annual Liberty Medal, recognizing individuals of "courage and conviction" who champion freedom. His defense of immigrant history and emphasis on inclusivity come at a time of significant debate surrounding U.S. immigration policies under the Trump administration, which has pursued mass deportations and restricted legal immigration.

The moral greatness of a nation is manifested, above all, in its capacity to support, protect and cherish the lives of all, especially the most vulnerable and those whose worth is questioned.

— Pope Leo XIVHighlighting the importance of compassion and protection for all citizens.

While Pope Leo XIV did not directly mention President Trump in his speech, his remarks implicitly contrast with the administration's policies. Trump has previously voiced criticism of Pope Leo XIV, labeling him "weak on crime and terrible for foreign policy" and stating he is "not a fan." This follows a pattern of friction between Trump and the Vatican, including past disagreements with Pope Francis over border wall plans.

weak on crime and terrible for foreign policy.

— Donald TrumpPresident Trump's past criticism of Pope Leo XIV's positions.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Tempo in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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