Pope Decries Bias Against Immigrants

Abuses and discrimination continue to plague immigrants in a painful reminder of the hardships confronting those seeking a new life abroad, Pope John Paul II said Sunday.

His comments had a broad scope, but he zeroed in on Italy with some of his most biting remarks. On Saturday, an Italian law took effect that tightens border controls and allows authorities to expel foreigners convicted of crimes.

The pope, speaking to a crowd in St. Peter’s Square, said it is important to “awaken public opinion to the problems of those who live far from their homelands.”

He particularly cited the role of women in holding together immigrant families and preserving religious traditions.