Rep. Frederica Wilson (D-Florida), known for her signature pink cowboy hat, has called for an “uprising” in response to reported conditions at the Glades County Detention Center in Moore Haven, Florida. Speaking at a press conference on April 24, Wilson described the facility as “a hellhole” and urged the Biden administration to take immediate action.

President Donald Trump has made a program of mass deportations the centerpiece of his second term.

The Glades County Detention Center, operated by the Glades County Sheriff’s Office, has faced numerous complaints over the years. Reports have highlighted issues such as inadequate medical care, unsanitary conditions, and allegations of abuse. In 2022, 17 members of Congress, including Wilson, sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security requesting the facility’s closure due to these concerns.

Wilson’s recent remarks come amid ongoing scrutiny of ICE detention facilities nationwide. Advocacy groups have long criticized the Glades facility for its treatment of detainees, particularly regarding the handling of COVID-19 protocols and alleged violations of religious freedoms.

The Department of Homeland Security has not issued a public response to Wilson’s latest call for action. The situation continues to draw attention from both lawmakers and human rights organizations concerned about the treatment of immigrants in detention centers.​

Republicans on social media said Wilson’s call for an “uprising” was encouraging political violence and should be investigated.

“Wow, Congressional Democrat Frederica Wilson says she has been giving out phone numbers that belong to Republican members of Congress so people can call and threaten them. Elected Democrats’ calls for violence against MAGA are disgraceful,” wrote one right-wing activist.

Read more about:
Paige Javor

Article by Paige Javor

Leave a comment

Subscribe to the uInterview newsletter