Individuals' experiences in U.S. immigration detention during the early period of the COVID-19 pandemic: major challenges and public health implications.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Individuals held in carceral settings were significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, limited research exists of the direct experiences of individuals detained by the United States (U.S.) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This study illustrates the major challenges described by individuals held in ICE's immigration detention centers during the initial spread of COVID-19.

Methods

We interviewed 50 individuals who were released from ICE detention between March 15, 2020 until August 31, 2020. Participants were recruited through immigration attorneys. Responses to a semi-structured interview were documented. Quotes from these interviews were thematically analyzed.

Results

Study participants were detained in 22 different ICE detention cen

SUBMITTER: Lee CH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9936455 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature