Newark city officials have enforced a curfew surrounding Delaney Hall, the ICE detention facility in New Jersey, following widespread protests against the U.S. government’s immigration policies. The unrest has led to confrontations in the area.
Mayor Ras Baraka announced a “mandatory curfew” that restricts movement within a half-mile radius around Delaney Hall. The curfew is active from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Its duration remains uncertain. Baraka emphasized the necessity of the curfew due to the “escalating situation.” Several arrests have occurred, including individuals armed with weapons.
Protests erupted after advocates claimed detainees were staging a hunger strike in response to poor conditions. Federal authorities have refuted these allegations. Demonstrators have consistently attempted to obstruct vehicles and personnel accessing Delaney Hall. Reports indicate aggressive responses from officials. Senator Andy Kim reported being pepper-sprayed at the site.
Counterprotests Supporting ICE
Supporters of ICE have launched their own demonstrations. Competing chants were audible across barricades set up by state authorities. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) declared that the area around Delaney Hall was “secured” and warned protestors that obstructing law enforcement would lead to legal action.
State police established protest zones and checkpoints around Delaney Hall, superseding immigration enforcement agents previously facing demonstrators. DHS stated that ICE officers had experienced assaults and received death threats.
Governor Calls for Calm
New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill criticized the unsafe conditions outside Delaney Hall. She advocated for increased police presence to “lower the temperature.” Sherrill’s attempt to access the facility was thwarted Monday.
Representative Jerry Nadler visited Delaney Hall and recounted “deeply disturbing” narratives from detainees. He alleged denial of essential medical care and demanded the facility’s immediate closure. Representative Adriano Espaillat urged a focus on internal conditions over external events, highlighting alleged mistreatment within Delaney Hall.
Inside the Hunger Strike at Delaney Hall
Advocates report a hunger and labor strike within Delaney Hall lasting over a week. Over 200 detainees reportedly protest conditions, including inadequate food, medical care, and air conditioning. The Detention Watch Network states a separate strike involving 20 individuals at another California facility.
Nadler claims detainees receive scant food portions, often containing maggots. He recounts a woman waiting over a month for a mammogram, noting Tylenol is the only available medication.
Representative Dan Goldman condemned the situation at Delaney Hall, urging public opposition.
Lauren Bis, acting assistant secretary at DHS, refuted reports of a hunger strike or medical neglect. She asserted adequate provision of food, water, and basic necessities.
Update 5/31/2026 at 7 a.m. ET: Additional information included.