Protesters Arrested Outside Manhattan ICE Facility Over Detention Conditions

Protest at 26 Federal Plaza

• 📣 Demonstrators gathered in lower Manhattan to protest the operations of ICE at 26 Federal Plaza, which they claim is a covert detention facility.
• 👮 Police arrested more than 15 people for disorderly conduct after a protest that lasted about an hour.
• 👥 Participants included faith leaders, justice advocates, and climate activists demanding changes in ICE operations.

Allegations of Covert Detention

• 🏢 Protesters allege that the 10th floor of the federal building is used for detention, not just processing.
• ⚠️ Concerns were raised about detainees being held in overcrowded rooms without adequate beds, showers, medical care, or access to lawyers.
• ⚖️ Detainees are allegedly stripped of their rights after coming to court for hearings.

Demands for Transparency and Accountability

• 🚪 Protesters seek unrestricted access to the 10th floor for elected officials, journalists, and faith leaders.
• 🚫 Access has been denied multiple times, including to Congressmen Dan Goldman and Jerry Nadler in June.
• 📜 The protesters are also advocating for the passage of the Melt Act in New York State to increase accountability and transparency among ICE officers, requiring them to wear visible name badges.
• 🗣️ Speakers emphasized the importance of New Yorkers standing up for immigrant neighbors and opposing current policies.