FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Rafael Benavides, media@mifamiliavota.org

DENVER – In response to GEO Group moving forward with the Hudson ICE Detention Facility, Christo Luna, Colorado Deputy State Director for Mi Familia Vota, issued the following statement:

“Mi Familia Vota strongly condemns the expansion of a new ICE Detention facility in Hudson Colorado.This expansion raises serious concerns about health and safety conditions, lack of transparency, and inadequate oversight of GEO Group’s detention operations.

“Across the nation, we’ve witnessed an unprecedented rise in deaths at these for-profit detention facilities and an unacceptable disregard for public health standards. After a protest last Thursday about the poor conditions in the Aurora facility, a woman was shot by an off-duty GEO Group employee. Allowing GEO Group to move forward with this expansion places all Coloradans at risk.

“We will continue to demand transparency and oversight. At Mi Familia Vota, we will protect the rights and well-being of our communities; we deserve actions that prioritize accountability, safety, and the dignity of all people, regardless of their immigration status.”

BACKGROUND:

• GEO Group, is a for-profit corporation that stands to make money on the detention of our communities.
• Just earlier this year, a tuberculosis outbreak was reported in the Aurora facility, highlighting how GEO Group has failed to comply with health standards.
• This also violates recent legislation that was passed during this year’s legislative session, HB-1276, which requires health and safety compliance in Colorado immigration facilities.
• The signing of this contract would show a clear prioritization of federal endeavors over public concern, and a blatant disregard for Colorado law as these private facilities seek to profit from migrant detention.

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About Mi Familia Vota
Mi Familia Vota’s mission is to mobilize Latino power through year-round activation of the electorate and investment in local infrastructure, to advance our community’s policy priorities. Mi Familia Vota is fighting for a future where Latino voices shape and advance policies that promote the health, safety and prosperity of Latino communities across the country.