ELCA Action Alert: Speak Out for People in Immigration Detention

Action AlertELCA AdvocacyImmigration and AsylumHuman Rights
Written By Solveig Muus

Urge your members of Congress to conduct essential oversight over ICE detention facilities and demand humane conditions. Take action today!

The number of people in immigration detention has increased to more than 58,000 people, many of  whom have no criminal charges against them. As existing detention centers are stretched to capacity limits and private corporations accept contracts to build new facilities and tent camps, it is urgent that we speak out against the mass detention of individuals and families, and for humane conditions and the right to legal counsel and religious expression for all those detained.

The ELCA social policy resolution, “Toward Compassionate, Just, and Wise Immigration Reform,” expresses support for “more humane, less costly, and more effective alternatives to detention, such as supervised release programs,” adding that, “When detention is necessary, compliance with humane standards and access to vital services must be ensured at every facility housing detainees.” 

In their oversight role, members of Congress can draw attention to harsh conditions in detention centers and call on the administration to respect the rights and human dignity of all.

There are four ICE detention facilities in Arizona. These include the Florence Service Processing Center, the Eloy Detention Center, the Florence Correctional Center, and the Florence Staging Facility. The Eloy Detention Center is the largest facility with the highest daily average population of detainees.

Customize your message to urge your members of Congress to visit U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities in their district or otherwise demand humane conditions and rights for those detained.

Solveig Muus
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