Rep. Judy Chu recently revisited the Adelanto immigrant detention center in California, a facility she first entered in 2014. Unfortunately, she found that conditions had not improved. During her visit last week, she expressed her disappointment, stating, “It is just scandalous as to how it has not improved.” As the number of detained immigrants continues to rise, she fears that conditions will only worsen.
The Adelanto center is one of many across the country where immigrants are being detained, often without adequate oversight. Following a recent visit by Chu and other congressional members, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) announced new regulations that restrict lawmakers’ access to detention facilities. These changes have drawn criticism, as federal law allows Congress members unannounced access to such places. Chu and her colleagues have labeled these new restrictions as illegal, but it remains to be seen whether courts will intervene.
The urgency of oversight is underscored by the sheer number of immigrants being detained. Many families are struggling to keep track of their loved ones who disappear into these facilities, which are often run by private companies profiting from government contracts. For instance, the GEO Group, which operates Adelanto, has reported over $600 million in revenue this year alone, with projections for even more as the facility reaches full capacity.
Chu, who represents a district with a significant immigrant population, feels a personal connection to the issue. Her own family history as the daughter of an immigrant drives her commitment to advocate for those affected by these policies. “I feel such a heavy responsibility to change things for them,” she said, reflecting on her daily interactions with immigrant communities.
During her recent visit to the Adelanto center, Chu was able to speak with some detainees. They shared troubling accounts of their experiences, including long periods without the ability to change clothes, dirty showers, and a lack of access to telephones. Many detainees expressed uncertainty about their future, with some stating they could be held for weeks or even years.
The situation in Adelanto highlights a broader issue affecting immigrant communities, particularly in Southern California. Chu emphasized that those detained are often not criminals but hardworking individuals striving to support their families. She believes that many U.S. citizens could find themselves in similar situations, as the immigration enforcement landscape continues to change.
Despite the challenges, Chu remains determined to fight for accountability and humane treatment within the immigration detention system. Her efforts reflect the need for continued advocacy as the rights of immigrants come under threat. As she noted, the presence of elected leaders willing to stand up for vulnerable populations is crucial in these uncertain times.