LOS ANGELES — “These charges are baseless, they are attempting to silence anyone who dares to speak out, organize or demand justice,” union leader David Huerta told the press after pleading not guilty at his arraignment in federal court here Nov. 25.
President of the Services Employees International Union California, Huerta was arrested and charged by the U.S. government with “obstructing justice” as he protested an immigration raid outside the Ambiance Apparel garment plant in downtown Los Angeles June 6.
The protest was one of many held here that month as tens of thousands took to the streets to demand a halt to raids and deportations, after federal immigration cops descended on communities across Southern California in a crackdown on immigrant workers.
“I will continue to stand with you until every worker and every family is safe from raids, separation and fear, and our constitutional rights are protected,” Huerta said Nov. 25.
Federal officials claimed in their original indictment that Huerta was “taunting” and “yelling” at federal officers, that he attempted to block federal enforcement vehicles from exiting the scene and had urged other protesters to sit in front of the vehicles.
A video posted by television station KPIX shows Huerta and others arguing with government officials. He has hands at his hips before being shoved to the ground, hoisted up by the back collar of his shirt and taken into custody. Huerta had to be hospitalized as a result.
Thousands joined an SEIU rally called to demand Huerta’s release June 9. He was freed on bond later that day.
The government initially charged Huerta with a felony that could have led to a six-year jail sentence. But the charge was reduced to a misdemeanor.
A statement in support of Huerta released by his union, SEIU Workers West, says, “This administration has turned the military against our own people, terrorizing entire communities, and even detaining U.S. citizens who are exercising their constitutional rights to speak out.” Huerta’s trial has been set for Jan. 20, 2026.
“The arrest and charges against David Huerta are an outrage,” Laura Garza, Socialist Workers Party candidate for Los Angeles mayor, told the Militant. “It’s important the labor movement follow the lead of the SEIU in demanding all charges against him be dropped.”