The New York nuns versus President Trump

On a scorching day in Newark, New Jersey, approximately 800 immigrants detained at the Delaney Hall Detention Centre were visited by inter-faith nuns and activists. The Sisters of Charity from New York, led by Sister Donna Dodge, were among those providing comfort, food, and toys to the families who had been separated from their loved ones by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Protesters, both radical hospitality supporters and MAGA and pro-ICE groups, gathered outside the detention centre, causing Sister Dodge to express her shock at their behaviour. The MAGA and pro-ICE protesters displayed flags with images of individuals shot by ICE in Minnesota, igniting a sense of fear in the Sisters.

Sister Susan Francois recounted a troubling incident involving a man in solitary confinement due to his crutches being deemed a weapon. Additionally, she mentioned a terminal cancer patient who wished to die at home but was kept in solitary confinement. Sister Susan expressed deep concern about the cruelty and lack of empathy displayed towards asylum seekers, describing it as an "evil" global phenomenon. She emphasized the importance of sharing human stories to evoke empathy and inspire action against such injustices.

The Sisters of Charity have a long history of political activism, dating back to their 1965 protest in Harlem for voting rights for black Americans. They have taken part in various rallies and vigils, including the NO KINGS rallies against President Trump. Despite the mid-term elections and increasing ICE raids and arrests, the Sisters remain determined to speak out against the abuses of human rights and the suffering of vulnerable immigrants and their children.