Protest Erupts in Chicago as ICE Detains Union Leader David Huerta

Chicago, June 2025 — Angered by recent ICE raids and the federal detention of David Huerta, president of SEIU California and SEIU‑USWW, supporters gathered today at Daley Plaza for a protest demanding Huerta’s freedom and an end to aggressive immigration enforcement tactics. The demonstration drew local lawmakers, union leaders, and immigrant‑rights advocates, underscoring a regional backlash.

Background: ICE Arrest Sparks Nationwide Outrage

David Huerta, 58, was arrested last Friday during an ICE operation at a Los Angeles worksite while serving as a community observer. Authorities charged him with “conspiracy to impede an officer” after video surfaced showing Huerta blocking a gate and urging others to “stop the vehicles” carrying federal agents. He was taken to a local hospital with injuries before being transferred to federal custody.

On Monday, Huerta was released on a $50,000 bond and is due back in court in July.

Voices from Daley Plaza

• Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García (D‑IL) condemned both the raids and Chicago police presence during last week’s detentions, calling the ICE actions “cruelty with intent”—a demonstration not about public safety, he said, but about control.

• Genie Kastrup, SEIU Local 1 president, joined chants of “Free David!” calling Huerta’s arrest “wrongful” and a threat to all immigrant workers.

• The Chicago rally also protested local police involvement in ICE check‑in site arrests, raising concerns that the TRUST Act—which prohibits Chicago police from aiding federal immigration enforcement—was violated.

A Growing Movement

Protests aren’t limited to Chicago. Rallies in support of Huerta also took place in Boston, Washington, D.C., San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, and other cities. In Los Angeles’s Grand Park, thousands gathered—many vocalizing their opposition to the deployment of the National Guard amid escalating tensions.

Union voices from across the nation, including leaders from the AFT and ISC-CIO, echoed the demand for Huerta’s release and for federal accountability.

What Comes Next

• Legal proceedings: Huerta faces a felony conspiracy charge carrying up to six years in prison, with his next court appearance set for July.

• Continued protests: Demonstrations supporting Huerta and condemning ICE tactics are expected to continue nationwide—in major cities such as Los Angeles until the National Guard is withdrawn.

• Local scrutiny: Chicago officials are reviewing the implications of local police presence during last week’s ICE activity to ensure compliance with the TRUST Act.

Why This Matters

This case sits at the intersection of immigration enforcement, workers’ rights, and free speech. Huerta’s arrest signals a stark message to immigrant communities and their allies: observing or intervening in federal raids may lead to criminal charges. With protests erupting across the country, advocates are demanding that ICE actions be reevaluated and that local authorities respect civil liberties.