Feds Ban Prayer at Broadview ICE Site, Deepening Dispute Over Clergy Access
Local authorities say the prohibition may violate constitutional protections.
Overview
- An unnamed federal representative told faith leaders there would be no more prayer in front of or inside the Broadview ICE facility, according to Broadview’s police chief.
- Friday marked the third time clergy were denied entry for pastoral care, and organizers were not allowed to deliver a letter requesting a scheduled visit.
- Police Chief Thomas Mills said he is conferring with the mayor and an attorney on whether federal officials can restrict religious gatherings on village-owned land.
- U.S. Magistrate Judge Laura McNally plans an on-site inspection to assess compliance with a court order requiring adequate food, water, bed space and attorney access for detainees.
- Protests continue under a Unified Command that has made more than 70 arrests since early October, with separate civil disobedience arrests Friday and recent reports of pepper balls used on demonstrators.