Demonstrators and ICE agents confront each other at Newark detention center as protests carry on

Protests Continue at Newark Detention Center

On Tuesday, protesters gathered again at the Delaney Hall Detention Center in Newark, New Jersey, clashing with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. These confrontations were an extension of the protests that started over the weekend.

Footage captured by bystanders showed immigration officials forcing a woman towards a line of masked and armed guards, who then threatened to use pepper spray as protesters yelled at them.

“You are here to separate families! Why?” one individual shouted at officials, highlighting the rising tensions.

The situation escalated when a demonstrator pushed a megaphone close to an ICE employee’s face, leading to a brief physical confrontation between the two sides before things calmed down.

This incident has prompted ongoing protests regarding the treatment of detainees at the facility, including reports of a hunger strike initiated by the detainees themselves.

Concerns Raised Over Detainee Conditions

A group of 300 inmates submitted an open letter alleging inadequate medical care for detainees with serious health issues, including those with HIV and cancer. They also claimed that many were not receiving enough food or communication with their families.

However, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) countered these claims, asserting that detainees receive three meals a day, clean water, clothing, bedding, and access to phone calls for families and lawyers. They stated, “ICE detention standards are higher than most U.S. prisons.”

DHS emphasized that comprehensive medical care is provided to detainees upon entering ICE custody, including mental health services, and that for many, it may be the best care they’ve ever had.

The GEO Group, which operates Delaney Hall, similarly defended its practices, stating that it offers 24-hour medical access, legal visits, and dietary services, among other resources.

Political Figures Involved

The protests have drawn attention from notable New Jersey Democrats like Senator Andy Kim and Governor Mikie Sherrill. Kim was permitted entry to the facility, but Sherrill’s request was denied, raising questions about transparency. In a Facebook post, Sherrill expressed her determination to hold ICE accountable.

A spokesperson from DHS criticized Sherrill’s attempts to visit, suggesting that it was a political move rather than a genuine inquiry, particularly given the violent circumstances surrounding the protests.

Other New Jersey Democrats, including U.S. Representative Robert Menendez, have also participated in protests or visits to detention centers. Meanwhile, Rep. LaMonica McIver, facing federal charges from an incident at Delaney Hall in 2025, is contesting the charges and has a court date set for June 23.