Faith leaders gathered Monday outside Miami Correctional Facility to protest state and federal immigration policies.

The demonstration followed a federal announcement earlier this month that the north-central Indiana prison would house up to 1,000 immigrants detained during enforcement operations.

About 150 people attended the vigil, where clergy led prayers, hymns, and scripture readings. Reverend Matt Landry of Castleton United Methodist Church said they stood “in prayerful support and solidarity of our immigrant brothers and sisters” and lamented the use of detention centers.

The group also criticized language they say dehumanizes immigrants, including the Trump administration’s nickname for the facility, “Speedway Slammer.” Pastor Steve Cain of Union Chapel United Methodist Church in Decatur said scripture calls for supporting immigrants, adding, “There’s no way you can escape the justice message for those who are sojourners.”

The faith leaders represented at least six Christian traditions and plan additional demonstrations across the state.

FROM INDIANA PUBLIC BROADCASTING