WASHINGTON and TRENTON, NJ  — The League of Women Voters of the United States and the League of Women Voters of New Jersey today issued the following statement in response to a mass hunger and labor strike at Delaney Hall immigration detention center in Newark, NJ:    

“The unacceptable conditions at Delaney Hall are horrifying. More than 300 people detained inside the facility are now on a hunger and labor strike after enduring inadequate medical care, unsafe and unsanitary conditions, spoiled food, and inhumane treatment. The League of Women Voters stands in solidarity with the strikers and echoes calls for the immediate closure of Delaney Hall and the release of the detainees. No person should be subjected to these conditions, and no democracy committed to human rights should tolerate them. 

“We are deeply alarmed by ICE’s escalating use of force against peaceful protesters, community members, and members of Congress standing in solidarity outside the facility. This disturbing pattern of force against people exercising their constitutional rights is unacceptable, and the League demands accountability for these continued abuses of power. 

“This administration’s mass deportation agenda has failed our communities, our country, and our humanity. It has fueled violence and militarization in neighborhoods across the country, undermined due process, and contributed to an unprecedented number of deaths and suicides among people being held in deplorable detention conditions. This must end. 

“Delaney Hall represents the dangerous consequences of a detention system that prioritizes incarceration and profit over human dignity and due process. The League of Women Voters implores members of Congress from multiple states to continue visiting Delaney Hall and to use their federal oversight powers. At a moment when communities across the country are demanding transparency, safety, and humanity, Congress must reject efforts to expand funding for ICE and CBP.  

“The League strongly condemns continued blank checks for detention and deportation systems that harm families and communities. Our immigration system must be rooted in dignity, fairness, accountability, and respect for human rights, and we remain committed to advocating for policies that protect civil liberties, uphold due process, and recognize the humanity of every person.” 

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