Union County activists demand resolution against immigrant detention center in Elizabeth

During a recent Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to the potential use of the former Union County Jail as an immigration detention center. Advocates argued that the facility, known as Delaney Hall, should not be repurposed for immigrant incarceration, citing concerns over due process and the impact on local families.

Speakers, including activists and representatives from organizations like the ACLU, emphasized the need for the board to take a definitive stand against the detention of immigrants. They highlighted the significant immigrant population in Union County, with many residents expressing fears about the implications of a detention center on community safety and cohesion. "We need politics to fight that," one speaker urged, calling for a resolution to disapprove the use of the facility for immigrant incarceration.

The meeting featured testimonies from individuals who have experienced the challenges of the current immigration system, including difficulties in visiting detained family members. Activists argued that the detention system serves no legitimate purpose and that the community would be better served by transforming the facility into affordable housing or job training centers, rather than perpetuating a cycle of incarceration.

Several speakers pointed out the economic implications of accepting bids from private detention companies, warning that prioritizing profit over community needs could lead to long-term harm. They urged the board to legally restrict bids to prevent the facility from being used for mass incarceration, emphasizing that there are alternative paths that could benefit the community economically while promoting social justice.

As the meeting concluded, the call for action was clear: community members are urging the Union County Board to prioritize the well-being of residents over profit-driven motives, advocating for a future that embraces inclusivity and justice for all. The board's next steps will be crucial in determining the fate of the former jail and its impact on the local community.