Protesters rally as Newark ICE detainees' hunger strike escalates into clashes

Outside Delaney Hall in Newark, more than 300 ICE detainees continued a sixth-day hunger and labor strike as protesters gathered in support; demonstrations turned tense when supporters attempted to block entrances, with ICE agents reportedly baton-charging and pepper-spraying demonstrators. Detainees allege harsh conditions and forced labor under Geo Group, while lawmakers Andy Kim and Mikie Sherrill faced pepper spray during visits. Six protesters were arrested, according to DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin. Detainees’ four demands include an in-person meeting with Sherrill, immediate release of all prisoners, swift adjudication of immigration cases, and an end to coercive self-deportation; advocates frame the issue as part of broader privatization and abuses at detention facilities and call for accountability and closure of the facility.