The labor movement in California took a dramatic hit this week when SEIU California, one of the state’s most influential unions, found itself at the center of a heated confrontation. On June 6, 2025, federal immigration authorities launched aggressive raids across Los Angeles, detaining 44 individuals. Among them was David Huerta, the president of SEIU California, arrested while observing the operations. This incident has sparked outrage, protests, and a renewed debate over immigration enforcement tactics. As tensions rise, the union’s response and the broader implications for workers’ rights demand close attention.
SEIU California’s President Detained
David Huerta, a prominent labor leader and Los Angeles native, was detained during an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid in the city’s warehouse district. He was there to document the sweeps, which targeted multiple locations, including an underground nightclub and a clothing warehouse. Witnesses report a chaotic scene: federal agents in riot gear clashed with protesters, deploying pepper spray and flash-bang grenades. Huerta, attempting to protect his union members, was allegedly thrown to the ground, tased, and injured. After receiving medical treatment, he was transferred to a federal detention center, where he awaits arraignment on charges of obstructing federal officers.
The union swiftly condemned the arrest, calling it an attack on Huerta’s First Amendment rights. Tia Orr, SEIU California’s executive director, praised his courage, stating he acted as a community observer to highlight the plight of immigrant workers. Hundreds rallied outside the Los Angeles Federal Building, demanding his release and an end to the raids. Local leaders, including Mayor Karen Bass, expressed alarm at the aggressive tactics, noting the emotional toll on communities witnessing family separations.
The Broader Impact on SEIU California
The raids have thrust SEIU California into a broader fight against what many call a draconian immigration crackdown. Representing over 750,000 service workers, the union has long advocated for immigrant rights, viewing them as integral to labor justice. The detention of Huerta, a vocal champion for these workers, feels like a direct challenge to the union’s mission. Protesters and elected officials, from state senators to city council members, have decried the sweeps as indiscriminate, accusing federal authorities of targeting hardworking individuals rather than focusing on public safety threats.
The union’s response has been resolute. At a press conference on June 6, SEIU California called for solidarity, urging members to stand against policies that “tear apart communities and disrupt the economy.” The incident has galvanized support, with allied groups like the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights joining the cause. Yet, the union faces a tough road ahead. With the Trump administration pushing for 3,000 daily ICE arrests nationwide, SEIU California must navigate a volatile political landscape while protecting its members.
Community and Political Reactions
The Los Angeles raids have ignited a firestorm of criticism. Governor Gavin Newsom labeled the operations “reckless” and “cruel,” arguing they erode trust and harm California’s economy. Senator Alex Padilla echoed this, calling the tactics a continuation of extreme enforcement measures. Meanwhile, U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli defended Huerta’s arrest, claiming he blocked federal agents’ access to a worksite. This clash of narratives—between community defenders and federal authorities—underscores the deep divide over immigration policy.
Protests erupted across the city, with crowds attempting to block ICE vehicles. Some threw objects, prompting police to use tear gas and less-than-lethal projectiles. The Los Angeles Fire Department treated multiple injuries, including Huerta’s, highlighting the physical toll of the confrontations. Community groups, including SEIU California, are now organizing to support detained workers and their families, offering legal aid and rallying for policy changes to protect sanctuary jurisdictions like Los Angeles.
What’s Next for SEIU California?
The detention of David Huerta has put SEIU California at a crossroads. The union must balance advocating for its leader’s release with continuing its broader mission to protect workers’ rights. Plans are underway for further demonstrations, with a focus on pressuring federal authorities to halt mass raids. Mayor Bass has pledged to meet with immigrant support groups to strategize responses, emphasizing that Los Angeles will fight for all residents, regardless of status.
The stakes are high. With ICE reportedly arresting over 100,000 individuals nationwide in recent months, the pressure on unions like SEIU California to resist these policies intensifies. The union’s ability to mobilize its members and allies could shape the narrative around immigration enforcement in California and beyond. For now, the focus remains on securing Huerta’s release and supporting affected workers, but the long-term fight will require sustained effort and coalition-building.
A Call to Action
The events in Los Angeles are a wake-up call. SEIU California’s struggle is not just about one leader or one raid—it’s about the rights of all workers to live without fear. Join the movement by attending local rallies, supporting immigrant rights organizations, or contacting elected officials to demand an end to aggressive ICE tactics. Your voice can make a difference in protecting communities and upholding justice.