Protest by Clergy at Newark Immigration Detention Center

On Monday, a group of around 50 clergymen gathered outside the Delaney Hall Detention Center in Newark, New Jersey. They protested by blocking the facility’s gates, expressing a commitment to remain there until they face arrest.

Many in the group tied their arms together at the entrance while singing. Various speakers took turns praying for the inmates, criticizing their detention and calling attention to the conditions within the facility.

These clergy members claimed they were willing to be arrested as they tried to gain access to the center. The event follows a recent protest where some Democrat lawmakers invaded the premises, reportedly as part of a “surveillance visit.”

In response to the protests, a Homeland Security Advisor highlighted that the detention center houses individuals with serious criminal backgrounds, including murderers and gang members.

The Department of Homeland Security communicated via social media that claims made by Newark politicians about the facility lacking proper authorization were inaccurate. They also mentioned that a significant portion of Americans support the deportation of certain undocumented immigrants, especially those convicted of violent crimes.

Amidst the protests, several New Jersey Democrats, including Ramonica McQuiver, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Rob Menendez, voiced their concerns during a CNN appearance. Coleman described the situation as chaotic and alarming, suggesting it poses a threat to Americans.

During the demonstration, Newark’s Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested and charged with trespassing after allegedly being involved in an incident with an immigration officer, which was caught on camera.