Select Page

The conditions within the Batavia Federal Detention Center (BFDC) are worsening with 49 confirmed cases of Covid 19.    An Investigative Post article, dated April 28, reports on the inhumane conditions of release from the BFDF.  “Immigrants are freed from the federal detention center in Batavia, dumped at a gas station and left to fend for themselves.”  Senator Kristin Gillibrand and Representative Brian Higgins called out ICE, and are asking for greater federal oversight of detention facilities across the country.  Here are some actions you can take to help.

  • Justice for Migrant Families (JFMF) is desperately in need of short and long-term housing options for people being released from the detention center who need to quarantine or whose long-term housing placements have been impacted by the coronavirus. If anyone has a rental space that is not being rented at this moment that a nonprofit could use for temporary housing (2 weeks – 1 month) for a reduced fee, please be in touch.  You can reach them at justiceformigrantfamilies@gmail.com
  • Watch a Facebook event with stories from those who are detained, an attorney and a public health expert. You can watch the (recorded) event here.
  •   If you are interested in getting involved with JFMF, please let them know by filling out this form. Some of the current needs are listed below.

1.) Becoming a pen-pal to someone detained in Batavia
2.) Answering the phone lines
3.) Direct support (gathering donations, delivery, emotional support)
4.) Housing Committee
5.) Legal Connection Committee
6.) Fundraising Committee
7.) Social media /website team
8.) Policy & Advocacy Committee
9.) Visitation (currently suspended)
10.) Interpretation/translation
11.) Lawyers, accountants or graphic designers who would like to volunteer their skills

Submitted by: Mary Rockwell, PhD, director, New Buffalo Institute