CHICAGO (AP) — A federal judge expressed optimism Friday at the government’s progress in making required changes to a Chicago-area federal immigration facility with alleged “inhumane” conditions.
Many of the changes include regular cleanings, ordering bedding, and making drinking water and soap more readily available for people held in the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Broadview.
U.S. District Judge Robert Gettleman ordered these changes after hearing emotional testimonies from detainees about overflowing toilets and crowded cells. Gettleman described these conditions as “unnecessarily cruel.”
The reviews have prompted a federal response to concerns raised by advocates and members of Congress about detainee conditions. Lawyers have characterized the facility as a de facto detention center, and protests have been ongoing.
“I am pleased with the government’s report, and hopefully, we’re moving in the right direction,” Gettleman remarked.
The government claims it is largely fulfilling the order, which is effective for 14 days.
Recent actions have included increased cleaning and ordering of bedding, while issues over healthcare and communications persist. Attorneys for detainees remain skeptical about the adequacy of these changes and seek permission to inspect the facility to ensure compliance.
The case shines a light on the challenging experiences of immigrants detained in the U.S., keeping the conversation around detention conditions alive.
