1. United States
2. N.Y.
3. Letter

After reviewing reports of appalling conditions at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) holding facility at 26 Federal Plaza in New York City, I urge immediate action to uphold basic human rights and dignity for those detained. The reports detail severe overcrowding, lack of hygiene products, inadequate food and water, and an overall environment unfit for human beings. While I understand the complex challenges immigration enforcement presents, intentionally subjecting individuals to such inhumane conditions is unacceptable and a violation of their fundamental rights. These practices undermine America's founding values of human rights and compassion. I call on you to take swift corrective measures to bring this facility into compliance with established standards for humane treatment. Allocate sufficient space per detainee, ensure access to proper sanitation and nutritious meals, and allow reasonable accommodations like confidential legal calls. Mistreating vulnerable individuals will only breed further societal divides. An urgent, humanitarian response is paramount. I implore you to demonstrate moral leadership by addressing this intolerable situation head-on and upholding the basic dignity owed to all people, regardless of circumstance or immigration status. Substantive reforms are crucial to restore integrity to our nation's immigration system.