Delaney Hall Detainees Launch Hunger Strike Demanding Freedom and Justice
Detainees at Delaney Hall, the largest immigration detention facility on the East Coast, initiated a hunger and labor strike on May 22, demanding freedom for the elderly, young, and medically vulnerable, and ultimately for all detainees. The strike, supported by outside protesters, called for a visit from the governor, an end to coercion to self-deport, and due process in immigration cases. The protest has led to the release of certain vulnerable detainees and prompted New Jersey to file a lawsuit against GEO Group, the facility's operator, for allegedly obstructing health inspections. Governor Mikie Sherrill has also increased funding for legal defense for immigrants facing deportation.