Letter to Diana Miller-Jones, Supervisory Detention and Deportation Officer, Detained Case Management, at the Buffalo Federal Detention Facility - Velázquez Wants Answers from ICE on Kosher Meals: Says NY Detainee's Rights May Have Been Violated

Letter

Dear Officer Miller-Jones:

I write to highlight Dovid Kohn's grievances on current dietary accommodations. As you know, observers of the Jewish faith follow stricter dietary requirements than they do during the rest of the year. Most importantly, the food, and any utensils must be kosher. It is important that the preparation of meals retain its kosher integrity. Such integrity is critically important, especially since the Passover holiday is quickly approaching.

It is my understanding that your facility has worked with Rabbi David Niederman of the United Jewish Organizations (UJO), to ensure that all food, including the procedures followed in preparation and sanitization of such products, meet the needs of the kosher population at this facility. I am, however, concerned that the facility may not be meeting the needs of its Jewish population despite receiving an external review from Akima Global Services. Mr. Kohn has expressed grievances over the preparation process employed by the facility when unwrapping products from their factory-sealed packaging. In addition, there are concerns over the use of non-kosher trays to serve meals.

While I appreciate your facility's work and collaboration with Members from my Jewish community for their input and guidance, I believe that any grievance regarding inconsistent compliance with dietary needs should be addressed. In addition, such review should also examine the infrastructure and mechanisms used to prepare or deliver kosher related meals. If upon review inconsistencies, like those highlighted by Mr. Kohn are found, corrective action should be immediately implemented.

Given the above considerations and the merits of Mr. Kohn's case, I request that your facility review the merits of this grievance and continue working with faith leaders to address such concerns, consistent with applicable law, rules and regulations.

Sincerely,

Source