Newark’s Curfew Amid Delaney Hall Protests and Counterprotests

Newark city officials have implemented a curfew around Delaney Hall, an ICE detention facility in New Jersey. This measure follows protests concerning immigration policies, which have led to clashes in the area. Newark Mayor Ras Baraka announced the curfew affects a half-mile radius around Delaney Hall, lasting from 9 a.m. to 6 a.m. The duration of this curfew remains uncertain.

Baraka justified the curfew due to the ‘escalating situation,’ noting several arrests, including individuals found with weapons. Protests began earlier in the month, triggered by claims of a hunger strike by detainees over conditions at the privately-run detention center. Federal officials refute the existence of a hunger strike.

Demonstrators have maintained a presence outside Delaney Hall, attempting to block access for vehicles and agents. Protests allege forceful responses by officials. Senator Andy Kim reported being pepper-sprayed outside the facility during the protests.

Counterprotests Support ICE

Counterprotests supporting ICE have emerged, leading to competing chants between groups, separated by barricades set up by authorities. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that as of Sunday, the area is ‘secured,’ warning protesters who obstruct law enforcement that they will ‘face the full weight of the law.’

New Jersey state police established protest zones and checkpoints around Delaney Hall, relieving immigration enforcement agents at the site.

Governor Calls for Safety

New Jersey’s Governor, Mikie Sherrill, emphasized the safety concerns, stating the situation has become unsafe. She expressed that police presence would ‘lower the temperature’ at Delaney Hall. Sherrill attempted a visit to Delaney Hall but was refused entry, as confirmed by her office.

Democratic figures like Representative Jerry Nadler and Adriano Espaillat have voiced concerns. Nadler shared distressing reports from detainees, advocating for the immediate closure of the facility due to alleged denial of medical care and medication. Espaillat criticized the focus on external events, urging attention to reported poor conditions within Delaney Hall.

Details on the Hunger Strike

A hunger and labor strike has reportedly been ongoing for over a week at Delaney Hall, involving more than 200 detainees. The issues cited include inadequate food, medical care, and air conditioning. Another strike is occurring at a separate facility in California.

“Small rations of food often contain maggots,” shared Nadler. He reported one woman’s month-long wait for mammogram testing, highlighting scarce medical resources. The only available medication is Tylenol.

ICE’s Lauren Bis refuted claims of a hunger strike, denying reports of medical neglect and retaliation. Bis assured that detainees receive sufficient food, water, bedding, and hygiene supplies.

Updated information was added on May 31, 2026, at 7 a.m. ET.