A new immigrant detention center in Newark, Delaney Hall, has become a focal point for protests and controversy. Activists have raised concerns over conditions inside the facility, citing insufficient food and restricted visitation rights. A reported riot on June 12 further heightened tensions, with detainees protesting against inadequate meals and other grievances. Advocacy groups and local officials are calling for transparency and accountability from both the GEO Group and federal authorities.

Reports suggest that detainees faced extended periods without food and were subjected to harsh measures during the protest. Outside the facility, supporters and family members rallied in solidarity, accusing ICE agents of using excessive force. Local leaders, including Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, criticized the lack of oversight and demanded immediate answers regarding the facility's operations. Meanwhile, federal agencies remain largely unresponsive to inquiries from concerned parties.

Protesters Decry Detention Conditions

Activists and family members of detainees gathered outside Delaney Hall to voice their dissatisfaction with the treatment of individuals held within. The facility, which opened in May, quickly became a symbol of contention due to allegations of substandard living conditions. Reports indicate that detainees experienced prolonged periods without proper nourishment, prompting unrest and a subsequent clash with authorities. These events have drawn significant attention from advocacy groups and local leaders alike.

The situation escalated when detainees reportedly protested against inadequate meal provisions and limited visiting hours. According to Jenny Garcia from the Detention Watch Network, detainees in Unit 5 were allegedly exposed to tear gas, resulting in severe respiratory distress. Protestors outside the facility blocked ICE vehicles, demanding justice and accountability. Garcia emphasized that visitation was abruptly canceled amid these disturbances, exacerbating the already tense atmosphere. Mary Rizzo, an activist present at the scene, recounted how visitors choking on fumes led to the suspension of scheduled meetings between detainees and their families. This incident highlights the broader issues surrounding the management and oversight of immigration detention centers.

Local Leaders Call for Transparency

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka and Congresswoman LaMonica McIver have emerged as vocal critics of Delaney Hall's operations. Both figures have expressed deep concern over the reported mistreatment of detainees and the lack of regulatory scrutiny. Baraka, who was arrested during a prior demonstration, stressed the necessity for city officials and congressional representatives to gain access to the facility for observation. His remarks underscore the importance of ensuring compliance with constitutional rights and local laws amidst growing public outcry.

Baraka's calls for action align with those of McIver, who remains frustrated by the administration's reluctance to provide detailed information about the facility. Despite being charged herself for interfering with law enforcement during a previous inspection attempt, McIver maintains that her actions were politically motivated and justified given the circumstances. The absence of clear communication from the Department of Homeland Security and the GEO Group continues to fuel skepticism among stakeholders. As the controversy surrounding Delaney Hall persists, advocates and officials alike emphasize the urgent need for reform and greater transparency in managing such facilities. Without adequate oversight, the risk of further incidents looms large, underscoring the critical role of dialogue and accountability in addressing these pressing issues.