New York officials arrested while protesting against ICE detention conditions

On September 18, 2025, in the United States, specifically in Downtown Manhattan, several New York City and state officials were arrested during a demonstration opposing the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This protest took place outside the ICE holding facility located at 26 Federal Plaza, an area known for its controversial immigration enforcement practices. The activists, which included Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, City Comptroller Brad Lander, and Assemblywoman Jessica Gonzlez-Rojas among others, aimed to draw attention to the conditions within the ICE holding cells and to demand oversight to ensure compliance with a recent court ruling regarding humane treatment and sanitization. They asserted that ICE has been engaging in inhumane detention practices and that legislative oversight was necessary to ameliorate these conditions. The demonstration escalated as the group attempted to enter the facility's 10th floor, where detention holds are located. When denied entry, the officials engaged in a sit-in, chanting for accountability and claiming their actions were nonviolent civil disobedience aimed at protecting marginalized and immigrant populations. Reports indicated that 71 people were arrested during this protest, including nine state Assembly members and two state senators. The Department of Homeland Security later stated that the demonstration was a stunt by politicians, emphasizing that the officers of ICE were merely performing their duties in apprehending individuals viewed as threats to public safety. Following the protests, the facility was put on lockdown due to a bomb threat, underscoring the high tensions that have surrounded ICE operations. The incident reflects growing frustration among lawmakers concerning immigration policies and the treatment of detainees. The arrests also highlighted the ongoing conflict between local government officials advocating for immigrant rights and federal authorities enforcing immigration laws. Protests at this location have become increasingly common as activists challenge the federal government's enforcement strategy and demand improved oversight and transparency concerning the treatment of detained individuals. The aftermath of this protest may influence future actions by both state and federal lawmakers regarding immigration issues in the U.S.