Statement Condemning the Detention of SEIU California President David Huerta from SEIU 503 President Johnny Earl and Executive Director Melissa Unger

“We strongly condemn the detention of SEIU California and SEIU USWW President David Huerta by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while he exercised his constitutional right to peacefully protest ICE’s indiscriminate immigration raids in Los Angeles.

“President Huerta has long championed immigrant rights, civil liberties, and economic justice. His arrest during a lawful act of civil disobedience is an attack on free expression and the labor movement. That he remains in ICE custody, even after being hospitalized, is both unacceptable and alarming.

“The labor movement will not tolerate retaliation against those who speak out against injustice. We demand Huerta’s immediate release and an end to efforts to intimidate activists through fear. Defending immigrant families is not a crime—it is a moral duty.

“We urge elected leaders, advocacy groups, and all who believe in justice to condemn this action and stand with us in protecting the rights and dignity of all workers.

“We encourage everyone to call the U.S. Senate at 1-833-312-1711 and demand they fight to free David Huerta and stop ICE raids.”