Matt Hildreth, Executive Director of RuralOrganizing.org, today joined the chorus of labor, faith, and community leaders condemning the bogus charges against David Huerta, Vice President of the California Labor Federation and President of SEIU California and SEIU USWW, following his unlawful arrest by ICE agents.
The following is a statement from Hildreth:
David Huerta’s arrest is a direct assault on the values that built our country: solidarity, justice, and the right of every person to stand up for their neighbors. We know firsthand how vital local leadership is to ensuring that rural and immigrant communities are heard. David Huerta is one of those leaders: committed to nonviolent, community-centered work that uplifts working families across California’s Central Valley and beyond.
His arrest and detention are violations of his civil liberties and a threat to every organizer fighting for dignity and fairness in our rural towns. This also sends a chilling message to rural communities that organizing and standing up for justice may be met with state force instead of respect for due process and the Constitution.
Our rural communities thrive when we protect our neighbors, especially those who are most vulnerable. We demand that the spurious charges against Huerta be dropped without delay, and that those responsible for this shocking abuse of power be held accountable. Until then, RuralOrganizing.org will stand shoulder to shoulder with David and with every person who bravely and peacefully defends our rights.
The mission of RuralOrganizing.org is to rebuild a rural America that is empowered, thriving, and equitable. Follow us on Twitter @RuralOrganizing.
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