A privately-run detention facility for illegal immigrants is under construction and scheduled to open in November of this year in Alvarado, Texas. The facility will have a special unit – comprised of 36 beds – for transgender detainees, making it the second of its kind in the federal system.
A report on transgender people and immigration by New York-based Human Rights Watch showed that more than half of the 28 women identified in the report were detained in the men’s facilities, while half were held in solitary confinement. One Honduran woman held at a detention center in Arizona was reportedly raped by three men at the facility, after which the guard told her “You are the ones that cause these problems and always call the men’s attention.” According to federal guidelines, detention staff should ask the gender identity of incoming detainees and provide them with their preferred accommodations. Guidelines also include instructions on how to conduct routine searches, provide clothing based on a detainee’s proclaimed gender identity, and maintain safety.
At the Law Office of William Jang, PLLC, we have years of knowledge and experience in helping families and individuals who are encountering issues with immigration in the United States. Get in touch with us to discuss your situation by calling our Austin offices at (512) 323-2333.
