Immigrants Conclude Hunger Strike Over Food Conditions at Tacoma Detention Center
Over 140 immigrants detained at the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) in Tacoma concluded a week-long hunger strike protesting inedible and irregularly served food. The strike, which involved detainees from units G3 and G4, was the 20th hunger strike at the…
Seattle Tacoma, WA, August 19, 2026 —
TACOMA, WA – Over 140 immigrants detained at the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) in Tacoma have ended a week-long hunger strike that protested what they described as inedible and irregularly served food. The protest involved detainees housed in units G3 and G4.
This marks the 20th hunger strike to occur at the facility so far this year. Detainees participating in the strike communicated with the solidarity group La Resistencia. According to reports from La Resistencia, issues cited by the detainees included receiving raw meat, being forced to rely on expensive commissary food for adequate nutrition, and experiencing late-night meal service.
The hunger strike concluded after negotiations between the detainees and GEO Group, the private operator of the NWDC. The detainees reportedly ended their protest after receiving assurances regarding improvements to the facility’s menu, the overall quality of the food served, and the portion sizes.
The Northwest Detention Center has faced scrutiny in the past for various conditions. Reports have indicated issues beyond food, including concerns about inadequate healthcare services and overcrowding within the facility. The current contract between the NWDC and GEO Group is operating under a short-term agreement.
Story summarized from the original created by Guy Oron on www.thestranger.com, see more information here.
