Disturbance at Newark’s Delaney Hall: Protests Erupt Over Food Inadequacies and Conditions
A Culinary Crisis in Immigration Detention
On the evening of June 12, a significant disturbance unfolded inside Delaney Hall, Newark’s immigrant detention center. Detainees voiced their discontent over insufficient food and subpar living conditions, resulting in a tense standoff that garnered widespread attention from immigration rights advocates.
The Protests Begin
The New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice took to X (formerly Twitter), reporting initial chaos just after 7:00 PM. Their posts detailed troubling scenes involving gas, pepper spray, and even a suggested fire within the facility. As frustrations escalated, detainees protested about receiving inadequate meals following an astonishing 20-hour period without food. According to the Alliance, this lack of sustenance ignited a response from inmates who allegedly attempted to breach a unit wall in desperation.
Eyewitness Accounts and Reactions
Jenny Garcia, communications associate for Detention Watch Network, provided critical insights from outside the facility. “Reports indicated that individuals in Unit 5 were tear-gassed, leading to widespread coughing. Visitors were denied entry as the situation intensified,” Garcia stated. Her account highlighted the ongoing struggles for humane treatment faced by those detained within the hall’s walls.
Resistance from Protesters
Protesters outside the center showcased their solidarity by blocking vehicles driven by ICE agents, creating a contentious scene as tensions reached a boiling point. Mary Rizzo, an activist with the Democratic Socialists of America, shared her experience of the evening, indicating that the protest evolved as visitors waiting in line began to choke amidst confusion. Rizzo noted, “They canceled visitations, citing technical issues, but we knew the reality was far more dire.”
Food Quality and Access Concerns
Concerns echoed throughout the surrounding community regarding the food quality provided to detainees. Reports surfaced suggesting some individuals were served subpar meals—"cold hot dogs and a bottle of water" were specifically mentioned. Moreover, visitation was drastically limited, allowing only 20 visitors per day for a facility designed to accommodate 1,196 beds.
Delaney Hall: A Disturbing Background
Delaney Hall, the first immigrant detention center established during President Trump’s second term, has been mired in controversy since its May opening. Critics argue that it epitomizes the struggles within the immigration system, exacerbated by a lack of humane treatment standards. In February, a contract was awarded to the GEO Group by the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to manage the detention space.
Concerns from Local Officials
Local politicians, including Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, expressed grave concerns about the operational practices within Delaney Hall. Baraka stated, “We are deeply troubled by reports of inadequate food and poor treatment… We need comprehensive oversight to ensure transparency and accountability.” His commitment to improving conditions matches the mounting pressure from community advocates pushing for substantial reform.
Congressional Oversight and Activism
Congresswoman LaMonica McIver has also been vocal about her apprehensions toward the facility’s management. Despite requests for information, ICE has yet to provide clarity about the troubling circumstances reported inside the detention center. McIver, who faced arrest during a demonstration outside Delaney Hall, underscored the persistent challenges activists face in seeking justice for detainees.
Moving Forward: A Call to Action
The events at Delaney Hall represent more than just a riot; they encapsulate the struggles of those caught in an immigration system fraught with inadequacies. As calls for better standards grow louder, it is vital that the community, lawmakers, and organizations work collaboratively to enhance conditions and uphold the dignity of those detained.
For ongoing coverage and updates on immigration issues, visit Detention Watch Network.
Ricardo Kaulessar covers race, immigration, and culture for NorthJersey.com. For unlimited access to the most important news from your local community, please subscribe or activate your digital account today.
Email: [email protected]
Twitter/X: @ricardokaul
