Delaney Hall hunger strike: Gov. Sherrill denied access
WHYY • • general
Key Points:
- New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill visited the private immigration detention center Delaney Hall in North Jersey amid a hunger and labor strike initiated by detainees on Friday, highlighting concerns about inhumane conditions.
- Sherrill was accompanied by U.S. Senator Andy Kim and Representatives Rob Menendez and Analilia Mejia, but her request for official access to the facility was formally denied by federal immigration officials.
- The governor criticized the treatment of detainees and committed to holding ICE accountable, while immigration advocates have called for the facility's closure, describing it as a "modern-day concentration camp."
- Approximately 300 detainees began the hunger strike to protest conditions, with ongoing protests outside the center supporting them, despite federal officials denying the strike's existence.
- Sherrill emphasized the need for transparency and humane treatment, stating her office is working to gain access and continue advocating for detainees' rights.