CSJP Leadership Team Statement on the Current Civil Unrest
“In accord with our tradition we commit ourselves to promote peace in family life, in the church, and in society. We strive to respect the dignity of all persons, to value the gifts of creation, and to confront oppressive situations. We respond to God’s people in need and promote social justice as a way to peace.”
--Constitution 11
In keeping with our Chapter commitment to resist every form of violence and our Congregation Statement to welcome immigrants and refugees, the Congregation Leadership Team of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace expresses profound concern regarding the intimidation tactics employed by paramilitary forces claiming to represent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) against vulnerable and marginalized populations. As religious women and lay associates committed to peace and justice, we firmly endorse nonviolent resistance against threats targeting immigrant communities throughout the United States. We express deep appreciation for those who continue organizing nonviolent actions, prayer vigils, and demonstrations supporting immigrant communities nationwide.
The nonviolent resistance and moral clarity demonstrated throughout Los Angeles and the nation deserves recognition as embodying the authentic spirit of democracy, where society protects its most vulnerable members and upholds every person's dignity and rights. The recent deployment of the National Guard and US Marines responding to nonviolent protests in Los Angeles against extensive ICE operations represents a grossly excessive response that undermines state government authority and only further escalated tension in a community in protest.
Consistent with our mission as agents of peace through justice, we reject the false belief that national strength derives from military power and reject the militarization being used to quell domestic demonstrations.
We express horror at the plans to parade the United States' instruments of war through Washington, DC streets this weekend. As a congregation devoted to peace and justice, we champion the advancement and funding of nonviolent conflict resolution, engaging in good faith dialogue, and the transformation of our economy into a system enabling all people to flourish.
We demand an end to the militarized suppression of nonviolent protest in the United States and to the raids, extractions, and detentions terrorizing communities across our nation.
Standing in solidarity with all who labor for peace and justice, we pledge our continued prayer and action on behalf of our immigrant brothers and sisters. We invite all people of faith to join us in building a more just and peaceful world where every human person's dignity receives honor and protection.
Congregation Leadership Team
Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace
June 12, 2025