1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

The use of private prisons as immigration detention centers is highly concerning, especially given the poor track record of companies like GEO Group in providing humane conditions. Reopening the North Lake facility solely to detain immigrants awaiting court hearings or deportation raises serious ethical issues. While economic opportunities are needed in rural areas like Lake County, profiting from mass incarceration and deportations sets a troubling precedent. The sheer scale of this facility, slated to be one of the largest in the nation, demonstrates an alarming prioritization of enforcement over humanitarian considerations. We should explore more constructive solutions that respect human rights while addressing immigration in a fair and judicious manner. Treating undocumented individuals as criminals rather than focusing on the complex socioeconomic factors driving migration is misguided and inhumane. I urge you to reconsider enabling the expansion of this destructive system and instead support policies that protect vulnerable populations with empathy and compassion.