Detention Watch Network

Who We Are

Detention Watch Network (DWN) is a dedicated nonprofit organization that brings together advocates, community organizers, and communications professionals committed to ending immigration detention in the United States. Established in 1997, our organization was born from an urgent need to challenge a rapidly expanding detention system that compromises human rights. We work to raise awareness and strengthen networks, forging partnerships that amplify the voices of those affected by unjust immigration policies.

As a national coalition, we unite organizations and individuals across the country who share our vision of a world without immigration detention. Through strategic coordination and collaboration, we build power to challenge harmful policies and practices while centering the leadership of directly impacted communities.

Our Team

Our team is a tight-knit group of around 19 passionate individuals primarily based in Washington, DC and working remotely from across the United States. Each member brings unique skills and a shared commitment to justice, accountability, and community empowerment. Our fully remote work environment enables collaboration across diverse perspectives, fostering an open and transparent culture where every voice is respected and valued.

We pride ourselves on balancing professional growth with personal well-being, ensuring that our work environment is both dynamic and supportive. Team members work in diverse roles spanning policy advocacy, communications, coalition building, research, and organizational operations—all contributing to our collective mission of ending immigration detention.

Our Values and Mission

At DWN, our core values guide every decision we make. We are committed to:

• Upholding human rights and promoting dignity for all – We believe every person deserves to be treated with respect and humanity
• Acting with integrity and accountability in every initiative – We hold ourselves to the highest ethical standards in our advocacy work
• Empowering communities affected by immigration policies to participate actively in advocacy and lead the movement for change
• Maintaining a passion for change and a relentless drive to impact policy and societal norms
• Building authentic relationships rooted in trust, transparency, and mutual respect

Our mission is to preserve human rights and restore justice by leveraging direct advocacy, strategic communications, and grassroots organizing. We aim to be a catalyst for change, influencing public policy and community decision-making to build a more equitable society where immigration detention is abolished and communities can thrive.

Our Work and Impact

Through our advocacy efforts, we:

• Coordinate national campaigns to end immigration detention policies and practices
• Provide resources and support to member organizations across the country
• Conduct research and analysis to expose the harms of the detention system
• Engage in strategic communications to shift public narrative and understanding
• Advocate for policy changes at local, state, and federal levels
• Center the voices and leadership of people directly impacted by detention

Employee Benefits

We believe that a supportive work culture is key to our success. Our benefits package includes:

• A reduced work schedule of 32 hours per week to promote a healthy work-life balance—because we know sustainable activism requires sustainable work practices
• A fully remote work option that allows you to work from anywhere in the U.S., eliminating commute time and offering geographic flexibility
• Flexible scheduling to adapt to individual needs and personal responsibilities
• 15 paid vacation days per year, giving you the time to recharge and return refreshed
• A collaborative and respectful team environment where every contribution matters and diverse perspectives are celebrated
• Professional development opportunities to grow your skills and advance your career in social justice advocacy
• Comprehensive health benefits to support your physical and mental well-being

Why Join DWN

Join us in a career where your work directly contributes to advancing human rights and social justice, while enjoying a flexible and supportive workplace environment. At DWN, you'll be part of a movement working toward tangible change—challenging unjust systems, amplifying marginalized voices, and building a future where all people can live with dignity and freedom. If you're passionate about immigrant rights, committed to racial and social justice, and seeking a workplace that values both impact and well-being, we invite you to explore opportunities with our team.