Celebrities Call for Closure of Dilley Facility

A coalition of high-profile Hollywood celebrities launched a petition on Sunday demanding the immediate shutdown of the Dilley Immigration Processing Center. The Texas-based facility is operated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for families.

The petition explicitly calls for an end to the detention of children and families. Signatories argue that children held at the site suffer from trauma, neglect, and conditions that fail to meet basic human rights and safety standards.

Notable Signatories and Advocacy

The petition, which reached over 20,000 signatures by Tuesday, features a wide array of prominent figures, including:

  • Madonna
  • Pedro Pascal
  • Javier Bardem
  • Mark Ruffalo
  • America Ferrera
  • Elliot Page
  • Jane Fonda
  • Diego Luna
  • Hannah Einbinder
  • Wunmi Mosaku
  • Billy Porter
  • Keke Palmer
  • Elizabeth Banks
  • Rachel Griffin Accurso (Ms. Rachel)

Many of these individuals have previously utilized public platforms, such as major awards shows, to vocalize their criticism of ICE. Rachel Griffin Accurso, a popular children's entertainer, recently stated that she is willing to embrace the "political" label to advocate for the care and equality of all children.

Official Responses and Rebuttals

CoreCivic, the company that manages the facility, has dismissed the petition's claims. A spokesperson for the organization described the allegations as "baseless" and "misleading," asserting that their staff provides a safe and humane environment for those in their care.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) also issued a response, criticizing the celebrities for their stance. A DHS spokesperson emphasized that the current administration is focused on protecting children and reuniting families.

Furthermore, the DHS representative questioned why these celebrities did not speak out regarding the humanitarian crisis and the exploitation of children during the previous administration's border policies. The agency highlighted the risks children face from human and sex traffickers when smuggled across borders.