Martin Soto Went Out for Diapers. He Came Home Eight Months Later.
Martin Soto, a Peruvian man thrown into solitary confinement after organizing a hunger and labor strike inside the notorious for-profit ICE detention facility Delaney Hall, was released from New Jersey’s Elizabeth Detention Center with an ankle monitor Tuesday night. Soto came to the United States from Peru in 2024 and was pursuing asylum. He was […]
Martin Soto, a Peruvian immigrant seeking asylum in the United States, was released from imprisonment eight months after being detained for purchasing diapers for his children. Soto, who had no criminal record, was thrown into solitary confinement following his involvement in a hunger and labor strike at the for-profit ICE detention facility, Delaney Hall.
His wife, Gabriela, organized protests outside the facility to advocate for improved conditions inside. In May, a group of over 300 detained immigrants, including Soto, announced a two-week hunger and labor strike demanding freedom, due process, and a meeting with the governor, as well as an end to coercive pressure to self-deport.
Despite reports of inedible food, violent guards, and inadequate medical care, DHS claimed the hunger strike never occurred. Soto was transferred to the Elizabeth Detention Center, where he remained for four more months. Gabriela Soto sought U-Visa certification for her husband, alleging human rights abuses against Soto and others. Her request was granted, and Soto was released on October 6, greeted by his wife and supporters.
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