Nineteen people being held by ICE at Angola State Prison are now on day four of a hunger strike, pushing back against what they describe as harsh and neglectful conditions inside the recently reopened facility often called “Louisiana Lockup,” according to reporting from The Advocate.
A joint statement from the Southeast Dignity Not Detention Coalition and the National Immigration Project claims detainees have been denied basics like toothbrushes, toilet paper, and shampoo. The groups also say some individuals with chronic health issues aren’t receiving their prescribed medications.
ICE has said the prison would include a law library and spaces where detainees could meet with attorneys. But according to advocates, those promised resources aren’t actually available.
Earlier this month, Governor Jeff Landry said the site was holding 51 detainees but could eventually house more than 400. The building—once used for high-risk state inmates but later abandoned—has since been renovated and is climate-controlled. Landry described it as a place intended for the “worst of the worst” undocumented immigrants. Under the current agreement between ICE, the Louisiana Department of Corrections, and the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, only men are being detained there, separate from the general prison population.
Along with access to health care and hygiene supplies, the detainees are also calling for consistent visits from ICE officials to hear and respond to their concerns.
“We stand with the hunger strikers as they demand basic necessities to which all humans are entitled,” said Bridget Pranzatelli of the National Immigration Project in the release. “Angola’s inability to provide medical care, hygiene supplies, and other essential services is just one more reason this facility should be shut down.”
WWL-TV has reached out to ICE, state officials, and both advocacy groups for comment.