MAYOR RAS J. BARAKA STATEMENT ON CITIZENS BANK CUTTING TIES WITH IMMIGRATION PRISON NETWORK

“Revelations about Citizens Bank’s involvement as a main funder of the ICE prison network have brought about many positive results. Here in Newark, they prompted a review of our financial institutions and revealed the remnants of two long-dormant accounts established in Investors Bank before its acquisition by Citizens in 2022. Combined, they totaled $649.93.

“Regardless of the small amount, we took immediate action to begin the process of closing those accounts. Rightly, the last place our residents would want their hard-earned tax dollars deposited would be a bank supporting an operation that terrorizes them – or their neighbors.

“The disclosure of Citizen’s relationships reaffirmed the strength of the pillars upholding our democracy. Free speech and free press enabled information sharing and shining light across shadows. The right to peaceably assemble empowered people to raise awareness and choose effective corrections, including economic action.

“We are happy that Citizens Bank has decided to cut ties with The GEO Group which operates Delaney Hall, the for-profit immigrant detention center that invaded our city. With values rooted in justice, and the dignity of all people, the City of Newark would never knowingly maintain a financial relationship with an institution whose actions are fundamentally at odds with the unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”

̶   NEWARK   ̶

For more information on the City of Newark, please visit our website www.newarknj.gov

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