Leavenworth residents oppose CoreCivic's plan for new ICE detention center

In a heated session at the Leavenworth City Commission meeting on March 25, 2025, community members voiced strong opposition to the proposed reopening of a CoreCivic-operated ICE detention center. The atmosphere was charged as residents expressed deep concerns over the implications of such a facility on local values and the treatment of immigrants.

Speakers highlighted CoreCivic's troubling history, citing past allegations of dangerous conditions and inadequate care within their facilities. One resident passionately described the potential detention center as a "direct threat" to immigrant neighbors in Kansas and Missouri, emphasizing that many undocumented individuals contribute positively to the community. The sentiment echoed throughout the meeting, with multiple speakers urging the commission to take a firm stand against the proposal.

Ashley Hernandez, representing the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, articulated a call for justice and dignity, urging the commission to reject the plan. She pointed out that the facility would not only harm vulnerable individuals but also strain local resources, diverting attention from essential services like healthcare and law enforcement.

Rick Hammond criticized CoreCivic's attempts to bypass the democratic process, arguing that their actions undermine community input and transparency. He called for a united front against the company’s efforts to operate without proper authorization, insisting that the city must uphold its laws.

Sister Jean Anne Penisco, speaking on behalf of the Advocates for Immigration Rights and Reconciliation, reinforced the message of community opposition, noting that over 1,500 individuals had expressed their dissent against the facility. She emphasized the need for the city to prioritize human rights and reject the exploitation of immigrants for profit.

As the meeting concluded, the commission faced mounting pressure to respond decisively to the community's concerns. The discussions underscored a broader struggle for justice and dignity, leaving residents hopeful that their voices would resonate in the decisions made by their local leaders. The outcome of this contentious issue remains to be seen, but the commitment to advocate for humane treatment and community values is clear among Leavenworth residents.