New York City Officials Arrested During Protest Against ICE

In a significant demonstration against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), New York City and state officials were among dozens arrested in Downtown Manhattan on September 18, 2025. The protest took place outside the controversial ICE holding facility located at 26 Federal Plaza, a site that has drawn increasing scrutiny over the treatment of detainees in recent months.

Protest Overview

The demonstration began with a sit-in outside the facility, where protesters vocally opposed the conditions faced by individuals detained by ICE. As the protest escalated, a group of lawmakers attempted to access the 10th floor of the building to inspect the conditions firsthand. Their efforts were met with police intervention, leading to multiple arrests.

According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), a total of 71 individuals were taken into custody, including two state senators and nine members of the state Assembly. The situation intensified when the building was placed on lockdown due to a bomb threat, further complicating the already tense atmosphere.

Lawmakers’ Intentions

Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, one of the arrested officials, described the protest as a form of “nonviolent civil disobedience” aimed at demanding oversight of ICE’s detention practices. In a statement, he emphasized the need for government action to support immigrant communities and vulnerable populations.

Assemblywoman Jessica González-Rojas, who was also detained, stated that the lawmakers were attempting to ensure compliance with a recent preliminary injunction ruling regarding the facility’s conditions. “We put our bodies on the line for the lives and freedom of thousands of New Yorkers who have been illegally kidnapped and detained by ICE,” she asserted.

City Comptroller Brad Lander and City Councilmember Tiffany Cabán were among those arrested alongside González-Rojas. Lander later recounted the experience, noting the stark contrast between the lawmakers’ intentions and the apparent indifference of the facility’s staff. “The cruelty on display in those courts and on the 10th floor is really clear,” he remarked.

Historical Context

The protest is part of a broader movement against ICE, which has faced increasing criticism for its enforcement practices and treatment of detainees. Established in 2003, ICE has been at the center of heated debates surrounding immigration policy, particularly during periods of heightened enforcement under various administrations. The agency’s controversial practices have led to widespread calls for reform, with advocates arguing that many detainees are held without just cause.

Historically, protests against ICE have often involved civil disobedience, as activists seek to draw attention to what they perceive as systemic injustices. The recent demonstration in New York City reflects a growing trend among lawmakers and activists to confront these issues directly, often at great personal risk.

Responses from Officials

In response to the protest, DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin characterized the demonstration as a “stunt” aimed at garnering attention. She accused the protesters of obstructing law enforcement and endangering both DHS personnel and detainees. “The men and women of ICE put their lives on the line every day to arrest violent criminal illegal aliens to protect and defend the lives of American citizens,” McLaughlin stated, adding that the rhetoric surrounding ICE has contributed to a significant increase in assaults on its officers.

ICE officials further claimed that federal elected officials do not have access to the 10th floor holding cells, arguing that these are temporary facilities rather than permanent detention centers. This assertion has been met with skepticism from advocates who argue that transparency is essential for ensuring humane treatment of detainees.

Broader Implications

The events of September 18 highlight the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the United States. As public sentiment shifts, particularly in urban areas like New York City, the role of local officials in advocating for immigrant rights becomes increasingly critical. The protest serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in immigration policy and the human stories behind the statistics.

Advocates argue that the treatment of detainees is not merely a legal issue but a moral one, emphasizing the need for compassion and oversight. The involvement of elected officials in protests signals a willingness to confront these challenges head-on, even at the risk of arrest.

Conclusion

The arrests of New York City and state officials during the protest against ICE underscore the deep divisions in American society regarding immigration policy. As the debate continues, the actions of lawmakers and activists alike will play a crucial role in shaping the future of immigration enforcement in the United States. The events at 26 Federal Plaza serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability in the face of systemic challenges.