URGENT UPDATE: The Democratic Women’s Caucus has just demanded the release of all pregnant, postpartum, and nursing immigrants detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) who do not pose a security risk. This demand comes amid alarming reports of detained women facing “appalling conditions” that threaten their health and pregnancies.
In a letter addressed to ICE acting Director Todd Lyons, the caucus, consisting of 61 lawmakers, expressed their concerns over the treatment of pregnant detainees, citing inadequate food, lack of proper prenatal care, and insufficient access to essential medical supplies. The letter highlights an urgent need for action as reports continue to emerge regarding the plight of these vulnerable women.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has documented over a dozen additional cases of pregnant immigrants facing severe neglect in ICE facilities. On October 22, they issued a letter to ICE officials reiterating the critical risks posed to both mothers and unborn children due to the conditions of detention.
“By detaining vulnerable women in appalling conditions while pregnant, you are subjecting both the pregnant individual and the unborn child to significant risks and possible death,” the Democratic Women’s Caucus stated.
Lawmakers are urging the Biden administration to enforce a directive that prohibits ICE from detaining pregnant, postpartum, or nursing individuals, except in “exceptional circumstances,” such as national security threats. Despite this policy being in place since the Biden administration took office, it has not been fully implemented, and reports of mistreatment continue to arise.
Currently, it remains unclear how many pregnant, postpartum, or nursing immigrants are in custody. Earlier this year, a Republican-controlled Congress allowed the expiration of a requirement that mandated biannual reporting on these detainees. Since March 2023, ICE has not provided any data regarding this demographic, despite numerous requests from lawmakers and advocacy groups.
ICE has previously stated that they provide adequate care for pregnant detainees; however, medical professionals disagree. They warn that conditions within ICE facilities can exacerbate health issues, with poor nutrition and limited medical access posing serious risks. “There are so many things working against them having a healthy baby,” said Rep. Robin Kelly, a lead author of the letter and a Democratic representative from Illinois.
The caucus has issued a call for not only the release of these immigrants but also a thorough review of ICE’s policies and training concerning the treatment of pregnant, postpartum, and nursing individuals. Additionally, they demand detailed information on the number of detained pregnant women and any related obstetric emergencies.
Lawmakers expect a substantive response from ICE within 45 days and stress the urgency of addressing these critical health and safety concerns. The situation remains fluid, and the impact on both the mothers and their children is dire.
This developing story highlights the ongoing struggles faced by immigrant women in detention, making it essential for the public to stay informed and engaged. Share this article to raise awareness about the urgent plight of pregnant immigrants in ICE custody.