Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has announced plans to construct an immigrant detention center in the heart of the Evergl’tades, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from both environmentalists and Native American communities. The project, dubbed ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ by detractors, has become a flashpoint for debates over land use, cultural preservation, and immigration policy. Critics argue that the site is not only ecologically sensitive but also holds deep historical significance for Indigenous peoples.
Native American tribes, including the Miccosukee and Calusa, have expressed outrage at the proposed location, asserting that it is sacred ground that has been used for millennia. Activists and tribal leaders have organized protests and called for a halt to the project, claiming that the detention center would disrupt wildlife and undermine cultural heritage. Meanwhile, supporters of the plan argue that the facility is necessary to address migration challenges and manage border security effectively. The controversy highlights the complex intersection of policy, environment, and Indigenous rights in Florida.