Protests Against ICE and the Conditions of Detained Migrants Escalate, Resulting in Arrest of Elected Officials
Introduction
Protests against ICE and the conditions of detained migrants have escalated at 26 Federal Plaza, resulting in the arrest of elected officials. New York Democrats have demanded to inspect the conditions after a federal judge cited overcrowding and lack of sanitation. The situation has become a hot topic with both politicians and activists taking a stand against the treatment of migrants in federal detention centers.
Key Details
The protests have been ongoing for weeks, with activists calling for immediate change and better treatment for the detained migrants. They have cited inhumane living conditions, lack of medical care, and overcrowding as major concerns. The recent arrests of elected officials have only added fuel to the fire, with many calling for accountability and transparency from ICE and the federal government. New York Democrats have also raised concerns about the lack of access to legal representation for the detained migrants.
Impact
The escalating protests and arrests have shed light on the dire conditions of detained migrants in federal detention centers. It has also brought attention to the need for reform and oversight of ICE and their treatment of migrants. With the 2020 elections approaching, this issue will likely continue to be a major topic for candidates and voters. The outcome of these protests and the actions taken by elected officials could have a significant impact on the treatment of migrants and the future of immigration policies in the United States.
About the Organizations Mentioned
ICE
**Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)** is a federal law enforcement agency under the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), established in 2003 following the Homeland Security Act of 2002, which reorganized existing agencies post-9/11 to enhance national security[1][2]. ICE’s core mission is to protect the United States by enforcing immigration laws, conducting criminal investigations, and preserving public safety. ICE operates primarily through two major divisions: **Homeland Security Investigations (HSI)** and **Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO)**. HSI focuses on investigating and disrupting transnational criminal organizations involved in customs violations, human trafficking, terrorism, and smuggling. ERO is responsible for the apprehension, detention, and deportation of individuals unlawfully present in the U.S., operating detention facilities and managing removal procedures[2]. ICE’s international reach is managed by the Office of International Affairs (OIA), a key overseas investigative arm coordinating with foreign governments to combat cross-border crime, such as arms smuggling, forced labor, and immigration fraud. OIA supports intelligence gathering, training, treaty implementation, and facilitates global cooperation to preempt threats before they reach U.S. borders[3]. With a workforce exceeding 20,000 employees across more than 400 offices worldwide and an annual budget of about $8 billion, ICE plays a pivotal role in U.S. homeland security[1]. Its activities, especially those involving immigration enforcement and detention, have made it a highly visible and sometimes controversial agency in public discourse, often referred to colloquially in Spanish as "la migra"[2]. Notable achievements include disrupting large-scale criminal networks internationally and supporting the enforcement of over 400 federal statutes concerning customs, immigration, and terrorism prevention. ICE’s dynamic operational scope—spanning law enforcement, international diplomacy, and legal administration—makes it a critical component of U.S. efforts to maintain national security and uphold the rule of law[1][2][
Federal Plaza
## Overview The name “Federal Plaza” most commonly refers to a prominent federal office complex—specifically 26 Federal Plaza in New York City—rather than a traditional organization. This building houses several federal agencies, most notably the New York - Federal Plaza Immigration Court, a part of the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) under the U.S. Department of Justice[1][2]. While not an organization in the traditional sense, the activities and controversies centered at 26 Federal Plaza have made it a significant site for immigration enforcement and legal proceedings in the United States. ## Function and Operations The New York - Federal Plaza Immigration Court adjudicates immigration cases, including removal proceedings, asylum claims, and other matters related to non-citizens’ legal status in the U.S.[1]. The court operates under strict federal guidelines, with public hours from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding federal holidays[1]. All visitors must pass through security screening, and the use of cameras or recording devices is prohibited in courtrooms[1]. Attorneys and accredited representatives, however, may use electronic devices for court-related activities[1]. ## History and Key Developments 26 Federal Plaza has long been a hub for federal operations in New York City. Its immigration court is one of the busiest in the nation, reflecting the city’s role as a major entry point for immigrants. In recent years, the building has also drawn attention for its use by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Notably, the site has been at the center of legal battles over detention conditions. In July 2025, a U.S. District Court issued a temporary restraining order prohibiting ICE from holding detainees in overcrowded or unsanitary conditions at 26 Federal Plaza, mandating improved access to hygiene, medical care, and confidential legal calls[5]. This order followed a class-action lawsuit by civil rights groups alleging abusive practices[5]. ## Current Status As
