On Saturday, a group of demonstrators gathered outside Alligator Alcatraz, a migrant detention center in Florida, demanding its closure. Describing the facility as an "atrocity," some protesters shared their concerns with Local 10. Among them was Andrew Closson, a supporter of Trump, who, despite his allegiance to the president, condemned the conditions at the center as "a sad situation" that could have negative repercussions in the coming years. Closson was part of the civilian group present outside Alligator Alcatraz in Collier County.
Angel Obrochta, another protester, expressed strong emotions, labeling the facility as "heartbreaking" and "an absolute atrocity." Meanwhile, Lesley Daunt drew parallels between Alligator Alcatraz and a "concentration camp" and criticized its environmental impact. "How are we supposed to uncover the truth with a guided tour? It makes no sense. It's part of their job," she remarked, referring to the lawmakers' and Congress members' guided visit that coincided with their protest.
Legislators' Guided Tour Raises Further Concerns
Coinciding with the protest, a group of state legislators and congressional members participated in a guided tour of the temporary structures in the restricted area of Alligator Alcatraz. Democratic Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz, part of the delegation, described the detention center's conditions as appalling and revolting.
Alongside Wasserman Schultz were Democratic Representatives Darren Soto, Maxwell Frost, Jared Moskowitz, and several state legislators. "This is an outrageous environment for detaining anyone," Wasserman Schultz declared during a press conference. Protesters could be heard shouting for help, with one voice yelling, "I'm a U.S. citizen!" followed by chants of "Freedom! Freedom! Freedom!"
The congresswoman depicted a grim scene with bunk beds and only three small restroom units for detainees, noting the presence of bedbugs even in unused beds. "We're talking about adult men being fed very small portions," she commented on the inadequate food provisions.
Maxwell Frost found the visit particularly emotional, witnessing fellow humans in cages and condemning the taxpayer dollars funding such a facility. "What we observed today was a political stunt—dangerous and wasteful. Evidence of flooding, with floors just eight inches off the ground," added Soto regarding the situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alligator Alcatraz Protests
What sparked the protests at Alligator Alcatraz?
Protesters gathered to demand the closure of Alligator Alcatraz, describing it as an "atrocity" and criticizing the inhumane conditions within the migrant detention center.
Who participated in the guided tour of Alligator Alcatraz?
Democratic Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Representatives Darren Soto, Maxwell Frost, Jared Moskowitz, along with several state legislators, participated in the tour.
What were the main criticisms of the detention center?
Critics highlighted inhumane living conditions, inadequate facilities, and the misuse of taxpayer money. They also compared the center to a concentration camp and expressed environmental concerns.