A crowd of anti-ICE protesters gathered outside the Delaney Hall detention facility in Newark, New Jersey, on Thursday night, calling for the closure of the immigration detention center. The demonstration was organized by local activists, who claimed the facility is a site of abuse and unlawful detention. Protesters expressed concerns about the treatment of immigrants held in the facility, with some arguing that the conditions have led to physical and psychological harm. The group demanded that the federal government end its use of detention centers, citing violations of human rights.
The demonstration in Newark follows a series of similar protests in other parts of the United States. Anti-ICE activists have been calling for the closure of detention facilities, arguing that the practices used by the agency are both ineffective and inhumane. Opponents of the protesters have defended the agency’s operations, stating that the facilities are necessary for ensuring border security and enforcing immigration laws. The debate over immigration policy and the role of detention centers continues to be a contentious issue in the country, with no clear resolution in sight.
Protesters at the Delaney Hall facility emphasized their belief that no one should be held in detention for long periods, especially when they are not charged with a crime. They cited reports from advocacy groups that claim detainees often face harsh conditions, including overcrowding, inadequate medical care, and limited access to legal representation. Local activists have also called on the federal government to prioritize alternatives to detention, such as community-based programs that support immigrants who are not in criminal proceedings.
Law enforcement officials reported that the protest remained peaceful, with no incidents of violence or major disruptions. The event drew a range of participants, including immigrants, local residents, and supporters of immigration reform. While the protesters have made their positions clear, the broader debate about immigration policy and the future of detention centers remains unresolved, with differing viewpoints across the political spectrum.