Ms. Rachel Advocates for Closure of Texas Immigration Detention Center

Rachel Accurso, known as Ms. Rachel, a prominent children's entertainer and YouTube star, is actively campaigning to close the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in South Texas. This facility has been a focal point of controversy due to its treatment of detained children and families. At its peak, the center housed around 500 minors, but as of late March 2026, approximately 50 children remain detained there. The Dilley center has faced significant backlash from human rights activists and lawmakers, particularly after reports emerged detailing poor living conditions, including moldy food, limited educational opportunities, and constant lighting.

Ms. Rachel Fighting to Close Texas Ice Facility

Accurso's involvement began after she learned about the detention of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father, who were sent to Dilley after being detained in Minneapolis. This prompted her to engage with children at the facility through video calls, where she has spoken with several minors, including 9-year-old Deiver Henao Jimenez. During these calls, Jimenez expressed his desire to leave detention to participate in a spelling bee, stating, "I want to leave and go to the spelling bee." Accurso described the experience as "unbelievably surreal," emphasizing the emotional toll it took on her.

Variety Magazine

Accurso has publicly declared her political stance, stating, "I am political. It’s political to believe that children are worthy of love and care, and that every child is equal." She is collaborating with lawyers and immigration rights activists to advocate for the closure of the Dilley center, aiming to reunite children with their families in their communities. In response to the allegations of poor conditions, CoreCivic, the company operating the Dilley facility, asserted that they provide "safe, humane and compassionate care" and that many claims about the facility are unfounded.

Fox News (website)

Despite her advocacy, Accurso has faced criticism for her political engagement as a children's entertainer. Some detractors argue that her involvement in such contentious issues is inappropriate. Additionally, she has been scrutinized for a past incident where she accidentally liked an antisemitic comment on social media, which she later clarified was unintentional. Accurso has also received threats against her family due to her outspoken views on various political matters, including her support for children affected by the conflict in Gaza.

Variety Magazine

While Accurso and other activists highlight the negative conditions at the Dilley center, some reports suggest that the facility offers various amenities, including educational services, recreational areas, and healthcare. Critics of Accurso's claims, including former Border Patrol agent Randy Clark, assert that the center provides adequate care and oversight. This discrepancy underscores the polarized views surrounding the treatment of detained families and children.

Breitbart

Accurso's campaign to close the Dilley Immigration Processing Center continues to gain attention, reflecting broader discussions about immigration policy and the treatment of vulnerable populations in the United States. As she navigates the complexities of her advocacy, the outcome of her efforts remains to be seen, with ongoing debates about the role of public figures in political discourse.

Breitbart