Newark, NJ — Mayor Ras Baraka Arrested During Protest at Controversial ICE Facility

On Friday, May 9, 2025, Newark Mayor Ras Baraka—currently a Democratic candidate for New Jersey governor—was detained by federal agents during a peaceful protest outside Delaney Hall, a recently reopened Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Newark.

The protest was prompted by serious concerns from local and state leaders about the facility’s operations. According to reports, Delaney Hall reopened without securing the necessary city permits, including a certificate of occupancy and approval for recent electrical work. When the Newark Fire Department attempted to conduct a safety inspection, they were reportedly met with resistance, prompting Mayor Baraka’s visit to the site.

Joined by Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman, Rob Menendez, and LaMonica McIver, Mayor Baraka was part of a group attempting to assess conditions inside the facility. The group was allegedly denied access, and Mayor Baraka was arrested during the confrontation.

The City of Newark has filed a lawsuit against ICE and the GEO Group, the private company managing Delaney Hall, arguing that the facility violates city code and poses unresolved safety hazards.

Representative Watson Coleman called the federal response “absurd,” disputing claims that lawmakers engaged in physical interference.

While the legality of the facility continues to be challenged in court, the treatment of elected officials at the protest raises additional questions. It is deeply troubling to witness councilmembers and community leaders—elected by the people to protect their interests—being handled in such a manner for exercising their right to protest.

Freedom of speech and peaceful assembly are cornerstones of democracy. Yet, instances like this reflect a concerning pattern: one where Black leadership, in particular, is met with disproportionate resistance when advocating for transparency and justice.

As the legal battle over Delaney Hall unfolds, so too does a broader conversation about who is allowed to lead, protest, and protect their communities without fear of retaliation.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jewelz Alize is a brand storyteller, culture writer, and event curator who’s shifting from being in front of the camera to bringing bold visions to life through words and intentional experiences. Her work highlights the lived realities of minority communities—through fashion, wellness, lifestyle, and current affairs—always centering authenticity over aesthetic trends. With a luxe yet accessible approach to curation and storytelling, Jewelz is dedicated to helping people feel seen, affirmed, and empowered to define success on their own terms.

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