Hundreds of demonstrators, a mix of environmental activists and indigenous people, are making an attempt to stop the facility at the last minute. The first migrant is expected to arrive in the coming days.
The detention center for illegal migrants will be located on an abandoned airfield about seven miles from Miami and construction is in full swing. The area is located within the Big Cypress national forest and borders the Everglades national park. It is known for alligators, snakes and a rich birdlife.
From a security perspective, if someone escapes, there are plenty of alligators. Nobody will get anywhere, commented Governor Ron DeSantis this week.
The area is home to several indigenous peoples, who consider several places there sacred.
Environmental organizations have filed a lawsuit in an attempt to stop the construction, due to concerns about the wetlands. Human rights organizations are criticizing the construction for being inhumane.
