ABOLISH ICE

Written By Westchester Progressives

Westchester Progressives Protest Outside Delaney Hall ICE Detention Center

As ICE ramps up its activities in Westchester, terrorizing our neighbors and communities, Westchester Progressives protested in front of Delaney Hall on July 31, demanding the abolition of all ICE detention centers. The very next day, the death of Delaney detainee Edwin Jovanny Lopez Cornejo was announced, making him the 23rd person to die in ICE custody in 2026. According to news reports, his family alleges that while detained, he was not provided medication for his diabetes and high blood pressure. Six weeks in custody at Delaney was a death sentence for Mr. Lopez Cornejo, who was father to a 12-year-old United States citizen. 

While we were pleased that CD16 Rep. George Latimer visited Delaney Hall, a visit alone will not bring about the awareness, accountability, and systemic change that this moment in United States history demands. We urge Rep. Latimer to seize this opportunity to speak forcefully, lead courageously, and use every tool available to help end the abuses taking place at Delaney Hall and throughout the ICE detention system.

Specifically, we urge Rep. Latimer to

  • Issue a public statement unambiguously stating his opposition to all ICE detention facilities and clearly explaining why he believes these facilities must close;

  • Speak publicly and frequently about conditions inside Delaney Hall through television, print, social, and other media to keep attention focused on this issue;

  • Publicly support abolishing ICE and commit to working toward that goal;

  • Call for a thorough, independent investigation into the death of Edwin Jovanny Lopez Cornejo, who died while detained at Delaney Hall, including whether detainees are receiving prescribed medications and adequate medical care;

  • Press for an investigation into whether individuals with lawful immigration status or valid work authorization are being unlawfully detained;

  • Demand that all detainees receive safe food, clean water, adequate medical care, and humane living conditions while in federal custody;

  • Publicly oppose plans to open a new ICE concentration facility in Newburgh.

Westchester Progressives