Newark city officials have implemented a curfew surrounding Delaney Hall, a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility, following escalating protests against government immigration policies. The curfew, effective from 9 a.m. to 6 a.m., covers a half-mile radius and was announced by Newark Mayor Ras Baraka. The duration of the curfew remains uncertain.
Mayor Baraka stressed the need for the curfew in response to the escalating circumstances. Several arrests have occurred near the site, with some individuals found carrying weapons. The protests began earlier in the month, sparked by detainee advocates who reported a hunger strike over Delaney Hall’s conditions. Federal authorities have refuted claims of such a strike.
Demonstrations have persisted outside the facility, with protesters attempting to obstruct vehicle access and alleging forceful responses from officials. New Jersey Senator Andy Kim, a Democrat, reported being pepper-sprayed during his visit outside Delaney Hall.
Counterprotests Supporting ICE
Pro-ICE counterprotests have emerged, leading to confrontations across barricades established by state officials. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) declared the area around Delaney Hall “secured,” warning that those obstructing law enforcement would face legal consequences.
New Jersey’s state police have designated protest zones and checkpoints since Friday, taking over from immigration agents previously handling demonstrators at the site. The DHS reported incidents involving ICE officers being bitten, assaulted, and threatened.
Governor Calls for De-escalation
Governor Mikie Sherrill described the situation as “unsafe and unacceptable,” advocating for police deployment to mitigate tensions at Delaney Hall. Sherrill was barred from visiting the facility, her office noted on Monday.
Democratic Representative Jerry Nadler visited Delaney Hall, voicing concerns over “deeply disturbing” reports from detainees and staff. He highlighted allegations of denied access to essential medical care, urging immediate closure of the facility.
Representative Adriano Espaillat criticized Republican focus on external events, highlighting pressing issues inside Delaney Hall, including poor conditions and treatment allegations.
Delaney Hall Hunger Strike: Key Details
A hunger strike and labor strike have reportedly been ongoing for over a week and a half, according to detainees and advocates. More than 200 individuals are believed to be protesting issues related to food, medical care, and air conditioning. The Detention Watch Network reported a similar strike involving 20 detainees at another facility in California.
Nadler outlined challenges inside Delaney Hall, including insufficient food rations, often infested with maggots. He mentioned a female detainee’s prolonged wait for cancer screening and limited access to medicine, with Tylenol being the sole medication available.
Manhattan Democratic Representative Dan Goldman emphasized the humanitarian aspect, questioning support for current circumstances at Delaney Hall.
Liberal Bis, acting DHS assistant secretary, refuted claims regarding the hunger strike and neglect. Bis assured that ICE provides adequate provisions, healthcare, bedding, and hygiene supplies to detainees.
Updated on 5/31/2026 at 7 a.m. ET: Additional information included.