Weeks after reports of at least one detained person going hungry voluntarily at Delaney Hall in Newark, the Department of Homeland Security says they have plenty to eat.
“During hunger strikes, ICE continues to provide three meals a day, delivered to the detained alien’s room and an adequate supply of drinking water or other beverages,” a said a spokesperson for Homeland Security, which oversees Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Immigration advocates, though, have a different story, according to Daysi Calavia-Robertson, a columnist for the news website NJ.com who is covering pro- and anti-ICE demonstrations and other news at the detention center.
“Detainees, relatives of detainees and advocates on the ground have been saying it’s not sustainable anymore at this point for the people who remain to participate in a hunger and labor strike,” Calavia-Robertson told NJ Spotlight News. “Because they are being retaliated against.”
Protestor struck
Outside the hall on Sunday, a woman identified as Alex James was holding an upside-down American flag when she was struck by a red sports car. Calavia-Robertson spoke to James, who was treated for minor injuries.
“She really was as shocked as anybody else as to what was happening,” Calavia-Robertson said. “No warning, no honking, nothing of that sort.”
The driver has not been identified. Homeland Security said the vehicle was not driven by an ICE employee, and referred questions to Geo Group, the operator of Delaney Hall. Geo Group did not respond to NJ Spotlight News’ request for comment.
James continues to make her voice heard, Calavia-Robertson said.
“She’s making it a point to show up and to say, ‘Even though this happened to me, I’m still here and if I’m still here, you can be here, too,’” Calavia-Robertson said.
‘Law and order’
Dozens of protestors gathered on Sunday, which was Father’s Day, some holding signs that read, “Free the Dads, Close the camp.” Soon after James was injured, demonstrators say, ICE agents came outside and set off noxious spray.
Protesters were attempting to obstruct law enforcement, Homeland Security said. One person was arrested after she allegedly bit an officer.
“On Sunday, rioters surrounded an employee’s vehicle, assaulted federal officers, interfered with a lawful arrest,” said a Homeland Security spokesperson. “Violence against law enforcement will not be tolerated. Law and order will prevail.”
Calavia-Robertson said the protestors, who have gathered for more than a month, are undaunted.
“I don’t see this just melting away,” she said. “We’re going to keep seeing incidents like this, unfortunately.”
