New York, NY—Today, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement outside of the ICE Delaney Hall Detention Facility, a non-permitted and previously shuttered site that does not have appropriate conditions.
Murad Awawdeh, President and CEO, New York Immigration Coalition:
“No sitting mayor of an American city should be arrested for trying to inspect an immigration facility in their jurisdiction. ICE detention facilities are subject to inspection and oversight by elected officials. But in today’s climate, federal immigration enforcement has been emboldened by the callous and lawless actions of the Trump administration to the point of responding to that oversight with this reckless and irresponsible action. The arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka is a step much too far. We demand the immediate release of Mayor Baraka, and for those responsible for this decision to be held accountable.”
Angelo Pinto, Co-Founder, Until Freedom:
“ICE’s arrest of Newark Mayor Ras Baraka is a dangerous assault on our collective rights. This is not just an attack on Mayor Baraka, but an attack on the people of Newark. Until Freedom stands in solidarity with Mayor Baraka. We demand accountability and an end to these unjust actions by the Trump administration and the agents carrying out his agenda. Our communities will not be intimidated, and we will not back down in the face of oppression.”