The Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership (CSPL) has filed a significant lawsuit against several high-profile defendants, including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and former President Donald J. Trump, alleging violations of religious freedoms at an ICE facility in Broadview, Illinois. The complaint was filed on November 19, 2025, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. It claims that the defendants have unlawfully restricted Catholic clergy from ministering to detainees, thereby infringing upon their First Amendment rights.
The plaintiffs, including Fr. Larry Dowling and other religious leaders associated with CSPL, argue that their rights under the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment have been violated due to restrictions imposed by ICE at the Broadview facility. On October 11, 2025, they attempted to hold a Eucharistic Procession to provide Holy Communion to detainees but were denied access based on vague “safety and security concerns.” This denial was repeated during subsequent attempts on November 1, 2025. The plaintiffs contend that these actions also infringe upon detainees’ rights to religious practice.
Historically, Catholic clergy have been allowed to minister within detention facilities without issue. Sr. JoAnn Persch had been permitted to pray with detainees weekly since 2010 until recent policy changes abruptly ended this practice without clear justification. The plaintiffs assert that these restrictions are not only arbitrary but also lack any compelling governmental interest or evidence of security threats.
In their legal action, the plaintiffs seek injunctive relief allowing them access to conduct religious services within the facility. They demand declaratory judgments affirming their rights under both the Free Exercise Clause and the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA). Additionally, they request compensation for legal costs incurred due to this litigation.
Represented by attorneys Thomas H. Geoghegan and Patrick V. Dahlstrom from Despres, Schwartz & Geoghegan Ltd., as well as Pomerantz LLP respectively; this case is presided over by Judge [Name] under Case ID: 1:25-cv-14168.
Source: 125cv14168_Coalition_for_Spiritual_v_Kristi_Noem_Complaint_Northern_District_of_Illinois.pdf
