Newark Imposes Curfew Amid Protests at Immigration Detention Center

The city of Newark, New Jersey, has enforced a curfew around the Delaney Hall immigration detention center. This decision was announced by Mayor Ras Baraka in response to escalating conflicts between protesters and police. The curfew will be effective from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., continuing until further notice.

The disturbances have been ongoing, with protesters clashing with law enforcement officers. Recent confrontations included efforts by demonstrators to breach barricades, while police utilized riot shields to maintain control. Social media footage showed officers on horseback dispersing protest groups.

Delaney Hall has been the focus of protests since detainees there initiated a hunger strike. The strike is in protest of the alleged poor conditions within the 1,000-bed facility. These demonstrations have become part of a larger movement opposing federal immigration policies.

New Jersey state police took over from federal immigration agents on Friday. The agents had been managing the protests at the center. Citing the role these steps play in securing the area, state officials continue to monitor the situation closely.

On Sunday, Governor Mikie Sherrill addressed the unrest, stating that some masked protesters used barriers as weapons and ignited tires in the streets. She emphasized the need for peaceful advocacy focused on improving conditions for detainees and their families, and ultimately advocating for the closure of Delaney Hall.

Sherrill also mentioned that family visitations at the facility have resumed as of Sunday. According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, visitations had been suspended due to prior violent riots. With security measures now in place, the department has reinstated visitation.