Protests Intensify Outside Delaney Hall After Access Denied to Governor

Protests escalated at Delaney Hall in Newark, New Jersey, on Monday after Governor Mikie Sherrill was denied entry to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility. The tensions rose as ICE agents in riot gear attempted to disperse protesters blocking the entrance.

Protesters voiced concerns about detainee treatment, with some throwing objects and others forming a human chain at the exit. U.S. Senator Andy Kim tried to deescalate the situation by asking protesters to step away from the agents. Protesters have been alleging poor conditions inside the facility, with family members accusing authorities of inadequate medical care.

Governor Sherrill, who joined the protests earlier in the day, expressed her disapproval of private detention facilities. Her request to enter the facility with a congressional delegation was denied. Sherrill criticized the refusal, citing a need for transparency.

A high-profile protestor, Gabriela Soto, claimed her husband faced wrongful detention. ICE clarified that he was being transferred to another facility, countering Soto’s assertions.

ICE explained that visitation was suspended due to the ongoing unrest. DHS accused Governor Sherrill of political maneuvering, emphasizing that detainees receive proper care, meals, and access to communication.

Timeline of Events

• Friday: Approximately 300 detainees initiated a hunger strike due to alleged inhumane conditions. Protesters gathered outside to support them.
• Saturday: Protests continued as Representatives Andy Kim and Robert Menendez Jr. visited the facility.
• Sunday: Gabriela Soto received news of her husband’s supposed release, which ultimately didn’t happen. The protest prevented the transport of Soto’s husband. A DHS spokesperson confirmed that 70 protesters were removed, and Soto Hernandez was transferred to another facility.
• Monday: Early morning altercations occurred between protesters and ICE agents. Later, Menendez and Representative Analilia Mejia visited, with politicians Kim and Nellie Pou present at the site.

The protests continue as calls for transparency and better conditions intensify.