A reported hunger and labor strike involving hundreds of detainees at a federal immigration facility in New Jersey entered its seventh day this week, prompting visits from elected officials and sparking competing claims over the conditions inside and outside the center.
South Asians for America (SAFA), a national advocacy organization, stated that approximately 300 detainees at Delaney Hall—an ICE detention facility operated by the GEO Group—have been refusing food and work since last week to protest living conditions and due process concerns.
The group noted that tensions intensified over Memorial Day weekend when federal agents used pepper spray and other crowd-control measures on demonstrators gathered outside the facility. Among those present was U.S. Senator Andy Kim, a New Jersey Democrat, who SAFA said was struck in the hand and inhaled pepper spray while attempting to de-escalate the situation.
Protesters continued to gather outside Delaney Hall on Friday following days of sometimes violent clashes with federal ICE officers. Some morning demonstrators carried gas masks, and a large tent was set up nearby stocked with supplies, including eye solution and paper towels. This followed another tense standoff between ICE agents and demonstrators overnight.
SAFA and several New Jersey officials also raised concerns about the transfer of a detainee described as a leader of the strike to another facility, calling the move retaliatory. The organization said Martin, a Peruvian immigrant detained since February, was transferred early Monday morning to the Elizabeth Detention Center—separating him from his pregnant wife, who has been leading protests outside.
The detainees are demanding direct oversight of the facility by Governor Mikie Sherrill, humanitarian release for elderly and pregnant individuals, independent judicial reviews of immigration cases, and an end to pressure tactics forcing detainees to sign deportation documents.
U.S. Representative Rob Menendez and other members of New Jersey’s congressional delegation visited or sought access to the facility over the weekend as part of oversight efforts. Menendez staged an overnight protest in the waiting room, waiting 16 hours without food or water before being allowed inside. Governor Sherrill and Newark Mayor Ras Baraka have also called for immediate inspections and greater transparency.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) strongly disputed these claims, stating that reports of a hunger strike and mistreatment at Delaney Hall are entirely false.
In an official statement, DHS asserted that detainees are regularly provided meals, medical care, and due process, emphasizing that “no hunger strike” is taking place at the facility. The agency also rejected allegations that officers used excessive force against protesters or detainees, maintaining that law enforcement used “the minimum amount of force necessary” after individuals obstructed access to the facility. DHS further denied that detainees had been attacked, stating that staff responded to an internal altercation in strict accordance with policy and that no serious injuries were reported.
Top federal officials also accused demonstrators of turning violent. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin addressed the situation directly on social media, writing that approximately 100 “anti-ICE rioters” gathered around Delaney Hall on the evening of May 28th.
“Rioters bit, kicked, and punched law enforcement officers,” Secretary Mullin stated. “Governor Sherrill refused to allow state police to assist our officers. Assaulting and obstructing [ICE] law enforcement is a crime and felony. Throughout the night, nine rioters were arrested. Anyone who assaults law enforcement will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Law and order will prevail.”
Acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis echoed these sentiments, claiming that “sanctuary politicians and leftist activists” have been spreading false information that is inciting violent riots.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
