Photo: Douglas Rissing / iStock / Getty Images
Pompano Beach, FL - A group of local activists assembled outside the Broward Transitional Center on Christmas Day to protest immigration detention practices and highlight concerns about people being held inside the facility during the holiday.
The demonstration took place in Pompano Beach and drew roughly two dozen participants despite the holiday.
The protest was organized by community advocacy groups Joyful Resistance and Resist Wilton Manors.
Participants said their goal was to raise awareness about individuals detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement who remain confined during Christmas, separated from their families and support networks.
Demonstrators stood along the roadway outside the secure facility, holding signs and chanting messages focused on immigration enforcement and human rights.
Organizers said the Broward Transitional Center houses individuals detained by ICE, many of whom are awaiting immigration proceedings.
The facility is operated by the GEO Group under a federal contract.
Advocacy organizations have previously raised concerns about conditions inside immigration detention centers across Florida, including access to medical care and the length of detention for individuals awaiting hearings.
During the demonstration, speakers emphasized that immigration enforcement continues regardless of holidays.
Protesters stated that people with various immigration statuses are sometimes detained during enforcement operations, adding to fears within immigrant communities.
The gathering lasted about an hour and remained peaceful, with no reported arrests or confrontations.
ICE did not issue a public statement regarding the Christmas Day protest.
The agency has consistently stated that detainees are held in accordance with federal standards and that enforcement actions are conducted under existing immigration laws.
Organizers said they plan to continue holding demonstrations and community events to draw attention to immigration detention and enforcement practices in South Florida.
