ELCA Presiding Bishop Condemns Supreme Court Ruling Allowing Racial Profiling in Immigration Enforcement

Elizabeth Eaton, presiding bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), has issued a statement on a September 8 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that allowed racial profiling in immigration enforcement. The decision granted a stay of a lower court’s restraining order that had limited such practices in Los Angeles while judicial action is pending. Eaton expressed deep concern over the use of racial profiling by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which targets individuals based on race, ethnicity, language, occupation, or location.

The ELCA defines racial profiling as “the use, typically by law enforcement, of a person’s racial or ethnic characteristics in the decision to detain or question the person about potential criminal activity.” Eaton emphasized that this practice denies the inherent dignity of every human being, who is created in the image of God. She cited the ELCA’s social statement *The Church and Criminal Justice*, which describes racial profiling as stigmatizing those innocent of any offense.

Eaton’s statement also referenced the ELCA’s *Freed in Christ: Race, Ethnicity, and Culture*, which identifies racial profiling as a legacy of white supremacy rooted in the sin of racism. She called for equal protection under the law for all neighbors, regardless of immigration status, and condemned the Supreme Court’s reversal of the stay as a dangerous shift that threatens civil liberties and constitutional protections.

Eaton spoke directly to the Latiné community, acknowledging their vulnerability and the impact of the ruling. She urged leaders to join in calling out this injustice and highlighted the ELCA’s AMMPARO resources, which support immigrants and refugees. The ELCA has also convened a coalition of interfaith leaders to advocate for those forced to flee their homes.

The ELCA’s stance aligns with its long-standing commitment to justice, mercy, and the dignity of all people. The church continues to work toward a society where every individual is treated with respect and fairness, reflecting the biblical call to protect the vulnerable.

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