- United States
- Texas
- Letter
The conditions described for immigrant women detained at the Krome North Processing Center are unconscionable and an affront to basic human dignity. Being held in overcrowded cells without access to toilets, water, food or medical care is inhumane treatment no one should ever endure. These disturbing accounts of degrading, dehumanizing conditions demand immediate intervention and reform. As a matter of urgent priority, I insist you launch a full investigation into the alleged abuses at Krome and other ICE detention facilities. Subjecting any human being to an environment akin to "hell on earth" is a violation of constitutional protections and human rights principles our nation was founded upon. Decisive action must be taken to uphold standards of humane treatment, ensure detainee health and safety, and hold accountable any officials or contractors responsible for such egregious failures. American values dictate that we treat all people, including undocumented immigrants, with respect for their inherent dignity. The mistreatment described undermines our moral standing as a nation of laws and human rights. I insist you use your authority to address this crisis and restore humane detention conditions immediately. Comprehensive immigration reform ultimately providing a pathway to legal status is also critically needed. But in the interim, decisive leadership is required to prevent any further suffering.