UNI Global Union has issued a statement condemning the arrest of David Huerta, President of SEIU California and SEIU United Service Workers West (USWW). Huerta was detained while observing and documenting an ICE raid in Los Angeles. According to UNI Global Union, Huerta was exercising his First Amendment rights as a community observer during the incident.
The union expressed concern that Huerta's arrest represents an attempt to silence labor leaders and reflects negatively on holding power accountable. UNI Global Union demands the immediate release of David Huerta and others detained under similar circumstances.
David Huerta began his organizing career with Justice for Janitors, a campaign advocating for immigrant janitors across the U.S. This movement aimed at improving working conditions and achieving respect for low-wage workers, starting in Los Angeles.