Protests and Tensions Rise at New Jersey Immigration Detention Facility

On Monday, clashes erupted outside a detention center in New Jersey as anti-ICE protesters confronted authorities. The demonstration took place at Delaney Hall in Newark, where protesters claim illegal immigrants are held under poor conditions.

Protesters attempted to block access to the facility by forming a human chain. New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill tried to enter the building but was denied entry. According to local reports, Sherrill expressed concerns over what might be hidden from public scrutiny. She stated, “My request for access to Delaney Hall was formally denied this morning, raising serious questions about what they are trying to hide from public view.” She reaffirmed her opposition to private detention facilities, advocating for the closure of Delaney Hall and resisting the expansion of other similar centers in the state.

The scene turned tense as some protesters threw water and shouted at ICE agents. According to WPIX-TV, authorities detained several protesters, and ICE agents ordered the crowd to move away from the road. Despite the confrontations, chants like “No more ICE!” and “Free them all!” were frequently heard among the demonstrators.

Inside the facility, detainees began a hunger and labor strike, citing inhumane conditions and lack of medical attention and visits. A letter from around 300 detainees expressed their perception of being “kidnapped” and subjected to mistreatment, while acknowledging their illegal entry into the U.S. They explained, “Initially, we ask for forgiveness for the way we entered the United States, but given the circumstances we were living in our countries, which placed our lives and those of some members of our families in danger.” They complained about the poor quality of food and accused the authorities of neglect.

“We feel vulnerable and, in a way, kidnapped—detained without justification—not to mention that we are being tortured physically and psychologically due to the poor food resources provided in these detention centers.”

A spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security responded, asserting that detainees receive three meals a day, clean water, clothing, bedding, showers, soap, toiletries, and access to phones to contact family and lawyers. They pointed out that ICE detention standards exceed those of most U.S. prisons.

Families and supporters have held a vigil outside the facility since the previous Friday. Governor Sherrill joined U.S. Senator Andy Kim at the protest on Monday. Both officials, along with others like Reps. Rob Menendez Jr. and Frank Pallone Jr., have called for the center’s closure.

Earlier, in February 2025, a Department of Homeland Security representative described the detainees as “murderers, terrorists, child rapists, and MS-13 gang members.” Public pressure and scrutiny on facilities like Delaney Hall continue to grow, with demands for transparency and humane treatment for detainees.