LA's Immigrant-Labor Alliance A Protest Powerhouse is Born

How Immigrants and Labor, Long Joined in L.A., Set the Stage for Protest

Los Angeles, a city built on the backs of immigrant labor, is witnessing a powerful surge of activism as unions and communities unite against immigration policies perceived as unjust. The recent arrest and subsequent release on bail of Mr. Huerta, a focal point of protest, underscores the deep-seated concerns regarding family separation and the impact of immigration enforcement.

“Our country suffers when these military raids tear families apart,” declared Liz Shuler, the president of the A.F.L.-C.I.O., amidst a crowd holding signs demanding, “Free David.” Her powerful statement, “One thing the administration should know about this community is that we do not leave anybody behind!” encapsulates the unwavering solidarity driving the movement.

This united front represents a significant shift in the historical relationship between American unions and immigrant workers. Historically, unions often harbored suspicions towards immigrants, fearing wage depression and a reluctance to challenge employers. While remnants of these attitudes may persist, the dominant trend reveals a strong alignment between union leadership and immigrants’ rights, particularly in opposition to policies of mass deportation.

Several factors contribute to this powerful alliance:

• Significant Immigrant Representation: Immigrants constitute a large percentage of union membership.
• Family Ties: Even when workers have legal status, many have undocumented family members, making deportations acutely painful and impactful.
• Shared Values: A shared commitment to justice, fairness, and the well-being of families strengthens the bond between unions and immigrant communities.

Arnulfo De La Cruz, the president of a S.E.I.U. local representing approximately half a million long-term-care workers in California, emphasizes the profound impact of immigration enforcement on families.

“The moment you execute actions that would separate families, that’s the worst outcome in the world,” De La Cruz stated. “It’s life-changing. It throws your family finances, your loved ones into chaos.”

The situation in Los Angeles serves as a microcosm of a larger national conversation. The strong reaction to immigration enforcement reflects not only the immediate impact on affected families but also a broader concern about the erosion of fundamental human rights and the values of compassion and inclusivity.

Ultimately, the alliance between labor and immigrant communities in Los Angeles showcases the power of solidarity and the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity. It serves as a powerful reminder that a society's strength lies in its ability to protect the vulnerable and uphold the principles of justice for all.

Tags: Immigrants, US unions, deportation, labor rights, AFL-CIO, Liz Shuler, Trump agenda, family separation, workers rights, immigration

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/11/business/economy/la-protests-immigrants-unions.html