Dallas, April 3 (RHC)-- Dozens of immigrant women detained at the Karnes Family Detention Camp in Texas have launched a hunger strike, saying their children’s health is suffering behind bars.

Activists say 80 women launched the strike on Monday, demanding their release and refusing to take part in any services inside. The women are asylum seekers who say they have been denied bond despite having established a credible fear of violence if they return to Central America.

Meanwhile, advocates for the women, including a legal assistant for the group RAICES, who was recently interviewed by Democracy Now! producer Renée Feltz, say they have been barred from visiting Karnes.