Community activists oppose auctioning jail to ICE amid calls for humane alternatives

In a charged atmosphere at the Union County Board of Chosen Freeholders meeting, community members voiced their deep concerns over the potential auction of a local jail, with many fearing it could lead to its acquisition by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The meeting, held on June 23, 2025, became a platform for impassioned pleas against the involvement of private prison corporations in the county's future.

As the evening unfolded, Irfan Kawaja, a resident of Princeton, delivered a stark warning about the implications of selling the jail to ICE. He drew parallels between the agency's actions and historical injustices, urging the board to reconsider their decision. "You might say you have a fiduciary responsibility to save the county money," he argued, "but at what cost to our humanity?" His call for a public debate highlighted the urgency of the issue, as he challenged board members to justify their choices in front of the community.

Farrah Naz, representing the advocacy group Resistencia, echoed Kawaja's sentiments, emphasizing that the decision to auction the jail was not merely a financial one but a moral crossroads for the county. "This is not a neutral process," she stated, imploring the board to reject bids from any corporation profiting from incarceration or immigrant detention. Naz painted a vivid picture of the human impact of such decisions, reminding the board that the communities affected are not just statistics but real people with stories and struggles.

Jean Fortin, a Union resident, also spoke passionately against the conversion of the property into a prison, framing it as a continuation of harmful federal immigration policies. Her consistent presence at the meetings underscored the community's commitment to advocating for humane alternatives to incarceration.

The discussions at the meeting highlighted a growing movement within Union County, as residents rallied for a shift towards solutions that prioritize rehabilitation and community support over punitive measures. Advocates called for investments in housing, education, and mental health services, arguing that these approaches are not only more effective but also rooted in dignity and respect for all individuals.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the voices of the community would continue to resonate in the halls of power, pushing for a future that values compassion over profit. The board now faces a pivotal decision that could shape the county's approach to justice and community welfare for years to come.