Newark Mayor Arrested During Protest at ICE Detention Center
Rights organizations and several political figures have expressed strong disapproval following the recent arrest of Ras Baraka, the mayor of Newark, New Jersey, during a protest at an immigration detention facility known as Delaney Hall. This facility has sparked considerable controversy since its opening, with critics asserting that it plays a significant role in ongoing mass deportation efforts.
Mayor Baraka joined various lawmakers for a demonstration on Friday, advocating against the recently inaugurated 1,000-bed center. Critics view the facility as part of an expanding immigration enforcement strategy initiated under the previous administration. Eyewitness accounts indicated that Baraka attempted to gain access to Delaney Hall alongside members of Congress, only to be denied entry by a representative from the Homeland Security Investigations unit, who informed him that his status did not grant him access.
Subsequently, Baraka exited to the public area of the facility, where he communicated with supporters through a gate. Video footage revealed an ICE agent advising Baraka that he was subject to arrest for allegedly trespassing. Despite the situation escalating, Baraka maintained his stance that he was not on private property and, therefore, could not be arrested. However, moments later, he was surrounded by several ICE agents who proceeded to take him into custody, leading to protests and expressions of outrage from bystanders.
Alina Habba, former personal attorney to Donald Trump, characterized Baraka’s actions as unlawful, asserting he had disregarded multiple warnings to vacate the premises. Nonetheless, fellow lawmakers, including US Representative LaMonica McIver, defended Baraka’s actions, insisting he had acted appropriately, having already left the facility prior to his arrest. McIver labeled the circumstances surrounding Baraka’s arrest as intolerable.
Governor Phil Murphy of New Jersey expressed his outrage at what he termed Baraka’s “unjust arrest,” emphasizing the mayor’s extensive commitment to representing vulnerable communities. Murphy’s comments are underscored by New Jersey’s legislative history, which has sought to curtail private immigration detention centers, although previous attempts have faced legal challenges.
Notably, the GEO Group, the company operating the Delaney Hall facility in partnership with ICE, refutes Baraka’s claims regarding the legality of its operations. The company secured a 15-year contract with the federal government earlier this year, valued at approximately billion.
As the political climate surrounding immigration continues to evolve, leaders like Baraka remain dedicated to advocating for the rights of individuals and families affected by immigration enforcement. In light of Baraka’s vocal opposition to prior immigration policies, this incident can be seen as emblematic of the ongoing struggle against practices perceived as unjust.
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