Residents oppose sale of Union County Jail to private prison or ICE

In a charged atmosphere at the Union County meeting, community members voiced their strong opposition to the potential sale of the Union County Jail for use as a private prison or an immigration detention center. The discussions highlighted deep concerns about the implications such a move could have on local families and the community's identity as a sanctuary city.

Raquel Morrissey, a leader from Make the Road New Jersey, passionately addressed the assembly, emphasizing her desire for assurances that the county would not contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or private prison companies. "It would have catastrophic impact jeopardizing the integrity and the stability of all the families who live in the state," she warned, urging county officials to prioritize the community's well-being over profit.

Morrissey, who has lived in the area for over 30 years and raised her children there, expressed disappointment at the mere possibility of ICE's presence in her neighborhood. Her sentiments were echoed by Maya Panton Aronoff from Resistencia Anacion, who highlighted the broader community's opposition to mass incarceration. "There are millions of us across the country who do not want more mass incarceration," she stated, advocating for the repurposing of former prison sites into spaces for rehabilitation and community support.

The meeting underscored a growing movement among residents who seek to redefine the narrative around incarceration and community safety. As voices rose in unison against the sale of the jail, the message was clear: the community is committed to fostering a supportive environment that prioritizes care and rehabilitation over confinement. The outcome of this meeting may shape the future of Union County, as residents continue to advocate for a vision that aligns with their values of diversity and inclusion.