Miami is known as one of the busiest spots in the country for illegal immigration action, with the ocean being an avenue for refugees and other foreigners wanting a chance at a better life. Once upon American soil, illegal immigrants may face detainment by authorities. Claims of mistreatment by customs officials and other immigration authorities are not uncommon. Immigrants are humans with feelings, no matter their nationality, and human rights advocates tirelessly strive to ensure they are treated fairly when they are in detainment or facing deportation.
Some immigrants may resort to desperate measures for the chance to have their concerns heard. Recently, three Pakistani men, who are being detained near Miami at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement center, went on a hunger strike. They said it was an attempt to secure better treatment or to be released on parole while they take the steps to obtain asylum in the United States.
A U.S. district judge ordered immigration authorities to force-feed the men, stating it was inhumane to allow them to starve themselves. The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida requested the Department of Homeland Security to look into the situation.
One man was said to have still been on the hunger strike and was being monitored. The strikes were reported to last 28 days, and the end result from the situation remains to be seen. If a refugee is being mistreated by authorities while seeking asylum or citizenship, he or she should be able to obtain an advocate to stand up for his or her rights.
Source: ABC News, “3 Florida Immigration Detainees on Hunger Strike Ordered Fed,” Sept. 11, 2015
