Columbia Protester Claims ICE Detention Severely Harmed Her Health

Leqaa Kordia, a 33-year-old Palestinian woman, spoke publicly after more than a year in U.S. custody. She said the experience took a heavy toll on her body and mind.

Detention and release

Kordia had been held at the Prairieland Detention Center in Alvarado, Texas. Federal authorities arrested her last March for overstaying a student visa.

An immigration judge ordered her release earlier this month on a $100,000 bond. She remains uncharged with any crime.

Protest background

Kordia had participated in protests near Columbia University before her arrest. As a Columbia protester, she says ICE detention severely harmed her health.

Conditions inside the facility

She described overcrowded and unsanitary conditions at the Texas center. She said detainees lacked nutritious food and reliable medical care.

Kordia told interviewers that staff shortages left many requests for help unanswered. She called the overall environment inhumane and degrading.

Seizure and medical response

Kordia said she developed a fever days before collapsing from a seizure. She said she repeatedly asked for help and received little or none.

She recalled awakening in the facility medical unit, frightened and disoriented. Kordia criticized the lack of doctors and nurses on site.

First television interview since release

On Sunday, Kordia appeared on “The Weekend: Primetime” for her first television interview since release. She spoke with Filmogaz.com about her year in custody.

Her account has drawn attention to health and safety concerns inside ICE detention facilities. Advocates and legal observers are monitoring developments.