Hundreds of people endured frigid conditions on Thursday to voice their strong disapproval of a planned Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in the village of Chester. The site in question is an unused warehouse that could be repurposed for this purpose.
Bipartisan Pushback Against the Proposal
Opposition to the project spans political lines. Orange County Democratic legislator Genesis Ramos highlighted the widespread resistance, noting that even Republican County Executive Steve Neuhaus has warned that such a center would lead to significant disruption in the community.
Ramos emphasized the deeper implications beyond logistical challenges, pointing to the ethical concerns involved. “The inhumane treatment that we know is happening across ICE detention centers in this country has no place here in our backyard,” she stated. “Even if we had the infrastructure, I would be in full opposition to this facility.”
Congressman’s Concerns and ICE’s Response
Representative Pat Ryan, a Democrat from New York’s 18th District, addressed the crowd at the rally. He revealed that his office had sought details on the proposal but encountered limited cooperation. ICE’s reply cited security issues, stating, “Due to the heightened threat environment and the unprecedented opposition being thrown up by the left against ICE’s efforts to effectuate mass deportations, ICE is unable to share details about any upcoming expansion in Chester.”
Ryan described the agency’s stance as unacceptable, especially in light of recent incidents. “We’ve seen straight up murders and executions on the streets of American cities against American citizens,” the Ulster County representative remarked, alluding to the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by federal agents in Minneapolis. “That’s why I signed on to impeach DHS Secretary Noem. That’s why we’re fighting back against this ICE warehouse right here in the Hudson Valley.”
He pledged to withhold support for any funding to the agency until greater accountability is achieved.
Continued Community Resolve
Ramos indicated that local leaders remain committed to blocking the development. The large attendance at the protest, she added, signals that public sentiment against the facility is firm and persistent. “People are really coming to a place of understanding that we need to meet this moment with a fight,” she said. “This moment demands a fight. And I think a lot of people are wanting to step up to the plate and be there for their neighbors.”
Efforts to contact the Department of Homeland Security for comment were unsuccessful.
