Protests Erupt Outside Delaney Hall Immigrant Detention Centre in the United States

Protesters Return to New Jersey Detention Centre Amid Hunger Strike Concerns

A hunger strike at the Delaney Hall immigrant detention centre in New Jersey has sparked renewed protests and raised questions about conditions within US immigration detention facilities. The facility, located outside Newark, reopened in February 2025 after a period of closure and is part of a network designed to accommodate thousands of immigrants targeted for deportation under President Donald Trump’s second term.

Local officials, including Newark Mayor Ras Baraka, have disputed the facility’s reopening, claiming it was done without proper permits. Critics have also condemned the conditions inside, alleging human rights abuses. The latest protests began this month in response to reports of a hunger strike among detainees at Delaney Hall.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill stated that health authorities were denied full access to inspect the facility, citing concerns about what ICE is trying to hide from public view. She has backed calls for the facility’s closure. On Wednesday night, protesters clashed with law enforcement as they attempted to block access to Delaney Hall, resulting in six demonstrators being arrested for allegedly assaulting federal agents.

The Department of Homeland Security stated that assaulting and obstructing ICE law enforcement is a crime and felony, and those found guilty will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. However, some critics have questioned the charges filed against protesters, including Mayor Baraka’s previous arrest during a protest in May 2025, which was later dropped.

Three US representatives inspected Delaney Hall on Wednesday night, describing dire conditions, including medical neglect and spoiled food. Representative Frank Pallone reported witnessing moldy food and people needing immediate medical attention without access to healthcare for over a week. The Trump administration has faced accusations of attempting to conceal poor conditions in detention facilities nationwide.

Source: Al Jazeera