«SEATTLE — Hundreds of union members and immigrant rights advocates rallied outside Seattle City Hall on Monday, calling for the immediate release of a prominent labor leader arrested during a federal immigration enforcement operation in California.
David Huerta, president of the California branch of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), was taken into custody Friday in Los Angeles. Federal prosecutors allege Huerta obstructed agents executing a warrant at a worksite, a charge his supporters say stems from his peaceful protest and advocacy.
‘I’ve worked with David for a number of years. He is a fierce fighter for workers’ rights. He’s a proud father — and he was out making sure people’s rights were protected,’ said Sterling Harders, president of SEIU 775, who spoke at the rally.
Monday’s protest in Seattle was one of many demonstrations held nationwide, coordinated by union organizers condemning what they describe as a political attack on organized labor and immigrant communities. Huerta was among more than 40 people arrested during the enforcement action, which has ignited controversy across the country.»