Protests at Newark ICE Detention Center as Detainees Launch Hunger Strikes
1 verified5 unconfirmed
Protests are ongoing at the Delaney Hall ICE detention center in Newark, New Jersey, where a hunger and labor strike has been reported. The facility is operated by the private security company GEO Group under a contract with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The demonstrations have drawn attention from lawmakers, including Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey, who is expected to discuss the situation. Similar hunger strikes have been reported at other ICE facilities in California, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, all of which are also run by GEO Group. Detainees and their families have alleged substandard conditions, including lack of medical care, unsafe drinking water, and use of force by guards. ICE has dismissed the accusations as a “hoax” and stated that its detention standards meet or exceed those of U.S. prisons. The GEO Group said its services are monitored by ICE and Department of Homeland Security personnel for compliance.
What’s verified
Protests have been taking place at an ICE detention facility in Newark, New Jersey.
Not yet confirmed
The extent of the hunger strike at Delaney Hall, reported by a single source to involve roughly 300 people.
Details of similar hunger strikes at facilities in Adelanto, California; Baldwin, Michigan; and Clearfield County, Pennsylvania, all reported by a single source.
Accounts from families alleging detainees were tear gassed and beaten by guards, and that ICE agents used pepper spray on protesters, reported by a single source.
Whether a health inspection of Delaney Hall was denied access to most of the facility, as stated by New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherill in a single report.
Senator Cory Booker’s specific role or statement, as only a pending interview is noted in one source.
Misconceptions
The sources address the claim that conditions in ICE detention facilities are substandard. ICE stated that detainees are provided with three meals a day, clean water, clothing, bedding, showers, soap, and toiletries, and that certified dietitians evaluate meals. ICE asserted its standards are higher than those of most U.S. prisons. The GEO Group stated that its services are monitored by ICE and DHS to ensure compliance with detention standards.
Key figures
Sen. Cory Booker (New Jersey Democrat)
Gov. Mikie Sherill (New Jersey Democrat) (title as given in source)
Gabriela Fuentes (protester and relative of a detainee)
Haddy Gassama (senior counsel, American Civil Liberties Union)
Jasmine Rivera (executive director, Pennsylvania Immigration Coalition)
Ruby Robinson (attorney, Michigan Immigrant Rights Center)
Sources: NPR, stateline.org
