A surge in vandalism and violence against Catholic churches across the US has triggered alarm and criticism of the Biden administration’s perceived lack of action on the issue. The attacks, ranging from bricks being hurled through windows to churches being set ablaze, have largely been attributed to ongoing controversies over abortion rights. This surge of violence came in the wake of the landmark Supreme Court decision two years ago that overturned Roe v. Wade.
Among the frontline victims targeted for their anti-abortion stance is the Catholic Church. As premeditated, often violent, acts frequently bear clear political or spiritual motives, these incidents have caused significant physical damage as well as undermined the safety and civil rights of Catholics to freely practice their religious beliefs.
Despite pleas for intervention and law enforcement, critics argue that the Biden administration, overseen by the country’s second Catholic president, has failed to adequately address this mounting issue. To date, the Justice Department has not pursued a single prosecution in relation to attacks on Catholic places of worship, critics say.
Also, amid calls for better surveillance on those planning attacks against churches, evidence has seemingly shown federal law enforcement’s surveillance efforts focused on regular worshippers instead. Now, as election year looms, with numerous states voting on abortion-related measures, fears over escalating violence and intimidation are growing.
Discussion about this post