Advocates hold Día de los Muertos vigil for immigration detainees who died in custody

The names of those who have died while detained in U S immigration detention centers Photo by Adrian Childress Times of San Diego Society groups gathered Wednesday outside the Otay Mesa Detention Center to honor those who have died while held in U S immigration detention facilities as marks one of the deadliest years in decades for detained immigrants People who attended the D a de los Muertos vigil and memorial arrangement were invited to bring ofrendas or offerings to build an altar in solidarity with those at the moment detained at the facility according to a news release The vigil comes amid mounting concerns about conditions in immigration detention facilities Organizers point to latest reports of detainees being held for days in cramped basement conditions at the Edward J Schwartz United States Courthouse They also cite ICE s refusal to allow elected executives entry to inspect federal immigration facilities despite legal requirements for oversight of detainee welfare Visitors arrange flowers during sunset at Wednesday s vigil and memorial function Photo by Adrian Childress Times of San Diego A sign on the altar reads No More Dead No Mas Muertos Photo by Adrian Childress Times of San Diego Visitors arrange marigolds on the offering space Photo by Adrian Childress Times of San Diego A speaker looks at the ofrenda to honor those lost in ICE custody Photo by Adrian Childress Times of San Diego Speakers at Wednesday night s vigil and memorial arrangement for those lost in ICE custody Photo by Adrian Childress Times of San Diego Detention Resistance Free them All SD American Friends Facility Committee Friends of International Friendship Park and society members coordinated the vigil The traditional Mexican holiday of D a de los Muertos celebrated Nov - honors deceased loved ones through altars offerings and remembrance ceremonies