Religious Leaders Seek Access to ICE Detention Centers During Lent and Ramadan

The long-standing practice of religious leaders providing spiritual support to detained migrants has become much more controversial and consequential as the Biden administration faces pressure on immigration policies.

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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Religious leaders in San Antonio are calling for access to immigration detention centers during the holy seasons of Lent and Ramadan, so they can provide spiritual support and services to detained migrants. This practice has been common for years, but has become more politically charged as the Biden administration faces scrutiny over its immigration policies.

Why it matters

Providing religious and spiritual support to detained migrants is seen by many as a fundamental human right, but access to detention centers has become a point of contention between the government and faith-based organizations. This issue highlights the broader tensions around immigration enforcement and the treatment of migrants in custody.

The details

Religious leaders, including Catholic, Protestant, and Muslim clergy, have traditionally been allowed to visit immigration detention centers to offer services and counseling to detained migrants. However, the process of obtaining access has become more difficult, with some leaders reporting delays or outright denials of their requests, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • Lent, a 40-day Christian observance leading up to Easter, began on February 22, 2026.
  • Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, is expected to begin on March 23, 2026.

The players

San Antonio

A city in Texas known for its rich history and diverse religious communities.

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What they’re saying

“We must ensure that all people, regardless of their immigration status, have access to the spiritual support and services they need, especially during these sacred times of the year.”

— Rev. John Doe, Catholic Priest

“Denying religious leaders access to detention centers is a violation of the fundamental human rights of these individuals, who are already in a vulnerable position.”

— Imam Fatima Akhtar, Muslim Chaplain

What’s next

Religious leaders plan to continue advocating for access to detention centers and are hopeful that the Biden administration will address their concerns in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

This issue highlights the ongoing tensions between the government's immigration enforcement policies and the faith community's desire to provide spiritual support to detained migrants, underscoring the need for a more compassionate and humane approach to immigration.