As ICE readies Louisiana facility for children and families, faith leaders hold vigil

Community members and religious leaders walk toward the new family and children detention center during an interfaith vigil at England Airpark in Alexandria, La., Thursday, Oct. 1, 2026. (Christiana Botic/Verite News and Catchlight Local/Report for America)

Local community activists and faith leaders from Louisiana and beyond marched and prayed Thursday (Oct. 1) at the fenced-off barracks and trailers at England Airpark, where federal immigration officials are preparing to open a privately-run facility to hold immigrant families and unaccompanied children awaiting deportation.

The 528-bed facility — which sits next to Alexandria International Airport and is expected to open imminently — will be the second detention facility designated for children and families under President Donald Trump.

Read the full story on Religious News Service.