Clergy blockade ICE facility in Newark
Dozens of Clergy Members Protest Outside ICE Facility, Vow to Continue Until Arrested
A group of around 50 clergy members from Faith in N.J. and Faith in Action gathered outside an ICE facility in Newark, N.J., on Monday to protest the detention of immigrants. They stood in solidarity, linking arms and chanting songs as they blocked the gates accessing the facility. The clergy members vowed to continue their demonstration until they are arrested.
During the protest, several speakers offered prayers for the inmates inside the facility and denounced their detention. The clergy members expressed their willingness to be arrested and stated their intention to enter the ICE facility.
Security personnel stand in front of Delaney Hall, a recently re-opened immigration detention center, in Newark, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
The protest follows a similar incident where Democratic lawmakers and protesters stormed the gate of the facility. In response, Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin defended the detention center, stating that it houses individuals such as murderers, terrorists, child rapists, and MS-13 gang members.
The Department of Homeland Security took to social media to refute claims by Newark politicians that Delaney Hall lacks proper permits. They shared information about the identities of some inmates to provide context for the facility’s operations.
Recent polling data from the Pew Research Center indicates that a majority of Americans support deporting at least some illegal immigrants. The survey shows that 32% of Americans support deporting all illegal immigrants, with 97% of those in favor of deporting individuals who have committed violent crimes.
Democratic lawmakers involved in the previous storming of Delaney Hall, including Reps. LaMonica McIver, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and Rob Menendez from New Jersey, defended their actions on a recent appearance on CNN. They criticized the Trump administration for allegedly weaponizing law enforcement.
Members of Congress bust into ICE detention facility in New Jersey. (X / @RepBonnie)
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was among those arrested during the protest, with authorities alleging that an ICE agent was assaulted in the incident. The confrontation was captured on camera, further escalating tensions.
Anders Hagstrom, a reporter with Fox News Digital, covers national politics and major news events. For tips or inquiries, reach out to Anders.Hagstrom@Fox.com or follow him on Twitter: @Hagstrom_Anders.
