NEWARK, New Jersey (WABC) — There were chaotic moments outside the federal immigration center at Delaney Hall in Newark, where ICE is housing detained immigrants.
Demonstrators continue to raise their voices, with some still out Tuesday morning after reports surfaced of an ongoing hunger strike by detainees.
“Get back! Get back! You’re gonna get sprayed!” you could hear on video during the protest Monday night.
On Memorial Day, a number of elected officials, including Gov. Mikie Sherrill, joined families and advocates protesting alleged inhumane conditions inside the Delaney Hall facility.
Some protesters Tuesday morning said they want the governor to return and speak directly with those being detained.
After the governor left, there was a tense standoff between ICE agents and demonstrators who blocked an entrance.
The Department of Homeland Security said in part, “No individuals were directly struck by pepper ball projectiles…rioters obstructed law enforcement from exiting the ICE facility.”
Sen. Andy Kim reacted to what transpired.
“My throat’s burning. My eyes are burning. But again, it’s not about me,” he said. “Several have told me they’re being threatened with retaliation, saying that if you continue with this protest, we will transfer you. We will cut back or cut off visitation rights for family.”
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin also released a statement, saying, “This is nothing more than a political stunt by New Jersey sanctuary politicians for fundraising clicks.”
Tuesday morning, immigration advocates said they remain committed to ensuring the safety of those detained.
“This is not what we want, people don’t deserve to be separated from their families. We are here to ensure they are not punishing people inside,” said Asma Elhuni, organizing director of Resistance and Action
Tensions first began to escalate over the weekend, when a physical confrontation broke out between protesters and security outside the gates.
Gov. Sherrill said she is pushing to shut down the facility and prevent another detention center from opening in Roxbury.
Delaney Hall is a privately-run facility with 1,000 beds. There are about 300 detainees inside, and they have tablets to communicate with the outside.
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