Detention Watch Network 

The Detention Watch Network (DWN) is the only national coalition in the United States that addresses the detention crisis head on and helps detainees and their loved ones make their voices heard. Standing in solidarity with immigrants, the Detention Watch Network (DWN) works to change the U.S. immigration detention system so that all who come to our shores receive fair and humane treatment.

DWN was founded in 1997 by the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc., the Florence Immigrant and Refugee Rights Project and LIRS in response to the rapid growth of the immigration detention system in the United States as a result of the 1996 immigration laws. From its inception until 2003, DWN was coordinated nationally by LIRS. In 2003-04, the network underwent an evaluation and planning process, and was re-launched in 2005 as an independent coalition.

‘Know Your Rights’ Materials The Florence Immigrant and Refugee Rights Project, a DWN member, has made a number of documents available to help people in immigration detention understand immigration proceedings. Read more.

DWN assists member agencies to accomplish detention reform by

• acting as the focal point for immigration detention issues;
• convening an annual conference to train immigration practitioners and advocates, and to share information and strategy;
• broadening and diversifying its membership to strengthen its voice for immigration detention reform, especially from communities affected by increased immigration enforcement;
• providing key support for members’ advocacy efforts through the synthesis and distribution of information, training, and networking opportunities; and
• organizing and coordinating advocacy efforts of its members.

Visit the DWN website for more information and membership materials. As an individual or organizational member of DWN you can work with the coalition to change the U.S. immigration detention system so that all who come to our shores receive fair and humane treatment.

Page last modified March 17, 2006.