NEW YORK (AP) — A wave of activism intensified on Thursday when over a dozen elected officials were arrested during a demonstration at a New York City immigration holding facility, coinciding with a federal court order aimed at improving treatment of detainees. The protest was led by a coalition of politicians, advocates, and faith leaders who have been vocal about the inhumane conditions at the facility. Among those arrested were city Comptroller Brad Lander and various state legislators who demanded access to the 10th floor holding rooms at the federal government’s 26 Federal Plaza site in Manhattan.

The officials were advocating for the enforcement of a preliminary injunction issued earlier this week, which requires U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to rectify issues related to overcrowding and unsanitary conditions. Brad Lander, who has previously faced arrest at the same location, expressed his commitment by linking arms with individuals facing detention, an act that resulted in his brief detention before his release.

Additionally, city Public Advocate Jumaane Williams and several others were arrested outside the facility, with reports indicating that the total number of detainees from the protest exceeded 75. This civil disobedience sheds light on ongoing concerns regarding immigrant rights and governmental accountability within the immigration system.