Thread by @MigrantFreedom

#THREAD

Since May 11, we have received multiple calls a day from #Adelanto, regarding serious health consequences caused by a toxic chemical distributed by GEO Group staff.

Here's just some of what we've heard from Hotline callers:

#FreeThemAll

“The disinfection spray that the facility is using is hurting us. Everyone in our facility has been having bloody noses, burning eyes, headaches & our bones have been
hurting. On the bottle it says that it has 'irreversible eye damage & skin burns.'"

#FreeThemAll

"When I blow my nose, blood comes out. They are treating us like animals. One person fainted
and was taken out, I don't know what happened to them. There is no fresh air."

#FreeThemAll

"There is no fresh air to breathe in the room. The guards have masks & gloves so don't seem bothered by it but many of us have very red eyes, sore throats, and headaches."

#FreeThemAll

@WeAreGeo staff have not verbally shared or posted any safety risks or precautions regarding the chemicals they are spraying with the individuals in detention.

Nor have they addressed the medical needs of people who have been exposed to the chemicals.

#FreeThemAll

@WeAreGeo is also failing to adhere to the safety guidelines for safe application. According to the chemical company:

“Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.”
“Do not breathe mist, vapors or spray.”
“IF ON EYES/SKIN: IMMEDIATELY CALL A POISON CENTER OR PHYSICIAN.”

We are concerned that the use of this chemical may be retaliatory. In late April, we received and made public reports from people in detention in #Adelanto that staff was cleaning the facility “just with water."

#FreeThemAll

It is beyond clear that everyone detained at #Adelanto would be safer at home with family and community than in the hands of GEO care. ICE must #FreeThemAll

Read the full complaint on our #COVID19 page: freedomforimmigrants.org/covid19