- Family visitation has been partly restored at a New Jersey ICE facility after a week of protests, with Units 1 and 3 granted visitation starting at about noon and 2pm local time, respectively.
- The governor's announcement followed a night of violent clashes outside the facility between local officials and protesters.
- Sherrill announced the restoration of family visitation at Delaney Hall, claiming DHS had 'met our demand,' but DHS refuted this, stating that visitation was suspended due to violent riots.
Family visitation has been partly restored at New Jersey's immigration detention center, a move confirmed by the state governor and US Homeland Security officials after a week of intense protests. The restored visitation applies to units 1 and 3, with the first time slot starting at noon and the second at 2 PM.1
The unrest erupted when detainees at Delaney Hall announced a hunger and labor strike on May 22, demanding better conditions and a meeting with U.S. officials regarding their immigration cases. This led to chaotic demonstrations outside the facility, where police employed tear gas against protesters. This resulted in violent clashes, with state police officers donning riot gear and arresting six individuals amidst the chaos.2
New Jersey Governor's statement claimed that DHS had met our demand for restored visitation; however, this was contradicted by the Department of Homeland Security, leading to confusion among families impacted by this situation. The ongoing tension surrounding the facility highlights the severe concerns over treatment and conditions for detainees.
“The restoration of family visitation at the New Jersey ICE facility was announced amid a backdrop of protests. Governor Sherrill claimed DHS had 'met our demand,' but the agency refuted this amidst reports of violence.”
The Guardian