Rachel, a well-known children’s educator, visited Delaney Hall, an immigrant detention center in Newark, New Jersey, on Monday. She expressed her concern for families there, claiming they faced “acts of terror” from immigration enforcement.
Rachel Griffin Acaso, known on YouTube as Rachel, shared a video where she spoke with the daughter of a man held at the facility. The man, who has lived in the U.S. for 20 years as a truck driver, was separated from his family. Acaso urged her followers to contribute to the family’s support.
In her post, she poignantly asked, “Why tear this family apart and separate them from their children with severe special needs?” She shared that many children are deeply traumatized and live in fear.
Accurso also shared a video of herself singing with family members and immigrant activists, with lyrics that spoke of unity and freedom. She tagged the New Jersey Immigrant Justice Alliance in her post.
A spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security responded strongly to the accusations, asserting that critics overlook the plight of children exploited by smugglers at the border. The spokesperson maintained that ICE does not separate families and that parents are given options regarding their children’s placement during removal processes.
It was noted that Accurso was in Washington, D.C., urging Congress to halt the detention and separation of families. She delivered letters from children whose parents were in jail, emphasizing that this issue transcends political lines.
Accurso’s visit comes after some anti-ICE activists faced arrests outside Delaney Hall for allegedly threatening law enforcement. She has a history of advocacy, having previously visited the Dilley Immigration Detention Center in South Texas.
Her ongoing political activism has drawn both support and criticism. Accurso has raised awareness around various issues, including the crisis faced by children in Gaza, which has sparked debate on social media platforms.
Back in January, she had to clarify her stance after unintentionally liking an anti-Semitic comment made by a follower. She emphasized her commitment to kindness and inclusiveness and condemned any form of hate.
Accurso has not yet responded to requests for comment about her recent activities.
