Community leaders urge Union County to halt jail sale for immigration detention

In a charged atmosphere at the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders meeting, community members voiced their deep concerns over the potential sale of the Union County Jail for immigration detention purposes. The meeting, held on May 19, 2025, became a platform for passionate pleas against what many residents described as a threat to their families and community safety.

Kathy O'Leary, the New Jersey region coordinator for Pax Christi, stood before the board, her voice steady yet filled with urgency. She posed poignant questions about the human cost of such a decision, asking, “Whose families will be torn apart? How many children will be traumatized?” O'Leary emphasized that the community had repeatedly expressed their opposition to the sale, urging the board to reconsider and protect their families from further harm.

The emotional weight of the discussion was palpable as O'Leary highlighted the historical context of the jail, noting its notorious reputation as a detention facility where, she claimed, people had died. She urged the board to recognize the implications of their actions, warning that entering into an agreement for the sale would mean cooperating with what she termed “intrinsic evil.” Her call for a resolution to prevent the sale to a private prison resonated with many in attendance.

Mary Heller, a long-time resident of Cranford, echoed O'Leary's sentiments, asserting that immigrants are not criminals and that the real threats come from agencies like ICE. Heller recounted harrowing stories of ICE's aggressive tactics, painting a vivid picture of fear and trauma inflicted on innocent families. “Please do not invite them into this community,” she implored, reflecting the anxiety shared by many present.

As the meeting progressed, the urgency of the community's message became increasingly clear. Residents urged the board to listen to their concerns and to prioritize the safety and well-being of families over potential financial gains from the sale. The discussions highlighted a broader conversation about immigration, community safety, and the moral responsibilities of local government.

With the lease on the facility set to expire in 2027, the future of the Union County Jail remains uncertain. The voices of the community, filled with passion and concern, serve as a reminder of the human impact behind policy decisions. As the board considers its next steps, the call for compassion and protection of families continues to resonate, leaving many to wonder what the future holds for Union County.