Demand Investigation and Reform of SLIPC Immigrant Detention Abuses

I am writing to express my deep concern and outrage over the alleged abuses at the South Louisiana Ice Processing Center (SLIPC) in Basile, Louisiana. Recent reports have uncovered shocking allegations of forced labor, sexual assault, and medical neglect against queer and trans immigrants detained at this facility. These actions, if true, are not only illegal but fundamentally un-American and a violation of basic human rights. The allegations span from 2023 to 2025 and include disturbing accounts of detainees being forced into an unsanctioned work program, performing hard manual labor for as little as $1 per day, and being exposed to harmful chemicals without proper protection. Even more alarming are the reports of sexual harassment and assault, with an assistant warden named Manuel Reyes accused of being a primary perpetrator. As your constituent, I urge you to take immediate action. First, demand a thorough investigation by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) into these allegations. Second, push for comprehensive reform of our immigration detention system to ensure the safety and dignity of all detainees, regardless of their immigration status or LGBTQ+ identity. The current administration's push to detain more immigrants and roll back protections for LGBTQ+ people in federal custody is deeply concerning. We must not allow policies that enable such egregious abuses. Instead, we need to implement stronger oversight, improve conditions in detention facilities, and explore alternatives to detention that respect human rights and dignity. This issue goes beyond party lines – it's about our values as a nation. All people, including immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals, deserve to be treated with respect and dignity. The alleged abuses at SLIPC are a stain on our national conscience, and we must act swiftly to address them. I ask that you use your position to shine a light on this issue, push for a full investigation, and advocate for meaningful reforms in our immigration detention system. Our response to this crisis will reflect our commitment to justice and human rights. I look forward to hearing about the steps you will take to address this urgent matter.