In Tallahassee, Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis’ administration is swiftly moving forward with the development of a temporary immigration detention facility at an airstrip within the Everglades. This site, which is being constructed at the Big Cypress National Preserve, has become the center of contention due to opposition from Native American leaders who deem it a sacred part of their ancestral territory.
On Thursday, a significant presence of construction equipment such as portable generators and dump trucks was noted at the location by activist Jessica Namath. The state is advancing with the establishment of a complex consisting of robust tents, trailers, and other provisional structures on land owned by Miami Dade County, approximately 45 miles west of downtown Miami.
Despite requests for comments, the Florida Division of Emergency Management, leading this initiative, has not provided any statements. The state government describes the locale as ideally suited for housing migrants, citing its sparse human population, predominantly occupied by wildlife like pythons and alligators. This description has not sat well with Native leaders who are vehemently opposed to the state’s project, informally dubbed “Alligator Alcatraz.”
Indigenous groups, including the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida, along with the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma, have historical ties to this region that date back thousands of years. Big Cypress and its wetlands have served as their homeland across generations. The current head of the Miccosukee Tribe, Chairman Talbert Cypress, criticized the characterization of the area and emphasized its deep cultural significance.
The region, home to 15 remaining Miccosukee and Seminole villages along with sacred sites such as ceremonial grounds, is rich with both historical and ecological value. A local resident, Garrett Stuart, captures the essence of Big Cypress as an ecosystem brimming with life, from the chorus of frogs to the call of ospreys.
Critics have castigated the creation of the detention center, referring to the usage of the area’s natural wildlife for security purposes as lacking understanding and compassion. Governor DeSantis and Florida officials defend the facility as an integral measure in supporting national immigration policies. The Florida National Guard is poised to deploy up to 100 soldiers to offer security and other assistance at the facility starting July 1.
Officials lack a timeline for this initiative, indicating the operation will persist as circumstances necessitate. In the meantime, tribal leaders and environmental conservationists are advocating for a shift in plans, highlighting the significant investments made into Everglades restoration which they believe are at risk due to these developments.
A demonstration by indigenous leaders and environmental activists is scheduled for Saturday to underline the spiritual and cultural value of the land, urging its protection for future generations. Miccosukee leader Betty Osceola has emphasized the importance of preserving this significant refuge that secures their cultural legacy.