The New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ), the nation’s largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy organization, today welcomed the release of Leqaa Kordia from detention while underscoring the urgent need for justice for those who remain behind bars in detention centers across the country.
Leqaa’s case offers a stark glimpse into a broader detention crisis. Thousands of individuals remain unjustly detained nationwide, many subjected to neglect and inhumane conditions. Reports from Leqaa’s time in custody, including being chained to a hospital bed, highlight a systemic failure rooted in a lack of accountability and the ongoing dehumanization of detainees.
In a statement, CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut said:
“Leqaa Kordia is finally home. We are grateful to God and to all the advocates and attorneys who worked tirelessly to secure her release. Leqaa was a political prisoner, who was targeted because of her vocal dissent of our government’s support for genocide. But we must not lose sight of the many others who remain in detention, enduring the same unjust and inhumane conditions. Leqaa’s case is not an exception; it reflects a broken system that detains by default. Her freedom must serve as a catalyst for meaningful reform across detention centers nationwide.”
CAIR-NJ also acknowledges the recent efforts at Delaney Hall in Newark by chaplaincy and programs staff to accommodate Ramadan and Eid. This entailed the Eid prayer and a feast to commemorate the end of fasting. Halal meat was sourced from Unity Halal in Newark.
CAIR-NJ thanks those who have applied to be religious volunteers for Muslim detainees and announces that the first such volunteer application has been approved. All applications are subject to screening by ICE.
CAIR-NJ also welcomes Delaney Hall accommodation efforts for Ramadan and Eid:
“We appreciate Delaney Hall’s efforts and receptiveness to accommodate Muslim detainees in Ramadan and host an Eid celebration. While this progress is unprecedented, new accommodations like Friday prayer services and access to religious items must continue year-round. Detainees deserve consistent access to religious services that support their spiritual and mental well-being during this already uncertain and isolating experience.” Maksut added.
“We call on Delaney Hall and detention facilities nationwide to dedicate greater resources toward these accommodations and to improving conditions overall.”
CAIR’s mission is to protect civil rights, enhance understanding of Islam, promote justice, and empower American Muslims.
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CONTACT: CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut, smaksut@cair.com, 862-264-9414