Protests at Delaney Hall ICE Facility

Outside the Delaney Hall ICE facility in New Jersey, protesters have been rallying for over a week, claiming that detainees are facing dire conditions. Tension escalated as some confrontations occurred between protesters and ICE officers.

One protester, Gonzalez, mentioned rumors of a hunger strike that has reportedly lasted 13 days. She expressed concern, emphasizing, “People haven’t eaten in 13 days. This is life-threatening. I think that’s a problem.” She highlighted significant allegations of “neglected health care,” “lack of sanitation,” and “rotten food,” leading to the protests.

On the other hand, Gonzalez argued against these claims, asserting, “You would be shocked to hear that none of this is true. There is no such thing as a hunger strike.”

A post referenced by Gonzalez noted a substantial rise in commissary sales at Delaney Hall amid these allegations, increasing by 161 percent—jumping from about $11,498 on May 26 to $30,013 by June 1. Interestingly, the detainee population decreased during that same time frame.

A statement from the Department of Homeland Security labeled the hunger strike claims as a “hoax,” characterizing the situation as detainees opting for less nutritious food options like Honey Buns and Hot Cheetos instead of their meals. The statement urged politicians to stop “political theater” and address the issue of illegal immigration more seriously.

Democrats, like Reps. Hakeem Jeffries and LaMonica McIver, countered the statistics presented, arguing for humane immigration practices. Jeffries, speaking outside the facility with McIver, claimed, “Delaney Hall should be closed,” and criticized the administration for their alleged indifference to human life.

Gonzalez took aim at Jeffries’ comments, pointing out, “The problem for you is that all of them are actually criminals because they are in the country illegally.” Adding a provocative touch, she remarked about McIver’s appearance, saying, “I think she’s already in prison clothes.”