Labor Movement Intensifies Fight Against Trump Immigration Policies

Liz Shuler, the president of the AFL-CIO, is bracing for a challenging summer as the labor movement intensifies its battle against the Trump administration's immigration policies. The arrest of David Huerta, the president of the Service Employees International Union of California, during a protest against an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid in Los Angeles, has brought the labor movement's struggle into sharper focus. Huerta's detention sparked widespread concern among unions nationwide, underscoring the pivotal role organized labor will play in opposing the administration's immigration crackdowns.

Shuler expressed relief at Huerta's release and the swift mobilization of the labor movement, which organized rallies in 30 cities across the country within 24 hours. She emphasized that the issue extends beyond Huerta's arrest, affecting thousands of workers detained by ICE in their workplaces. The labor movement is demanding an end to ICE raids in workplaces, arguing that these actions are not aligned with ICE's stated objective of targeting criminals rather than everyday working people.

The AFL-CIO is employing a multi-faceted approach to combat the administration's policies. This includes peaceful protests, legal strategies, and leveraging pension fund investments. Shuler highlighted the labor movement's extensive toolbox, which includes organizing at the community level, protests, rallies, and actions. The AFL-CIO's network of local labor bodies in every state and city provides a unique advantage in educating, training, and activating workers on short notice.

In addition to protests, the AFL-CIO is deploying strategies in the courts and Congress. Shuler noted that the labor movement is not just reacting to individual incidents but is planning for the long term. The AFL-CIO has launched a Department of People Who Work for a Living to translate policy changes for workers and has been organizing nationwide actions during congressional recesses. These actions have been doubling in size each month, indicating a growing momentum.

Shuler also emphasized the importance of educating workers about their rights and how to respond to ICE visits. The AFL-CIO has developed a toolkit to prepare local union leaders and communities for such situations, empowering workers with the knowledge and confidence to stand up for their rights. The labor movement is committed to protecting workers' dignity and respect on the job, ensuring they are not intimidated by the administration's policies.

The AFL-CIO's strategy for the coming months involves escalating actions and mobilizing workers in response to the administration's policies. Shuler noted that the labor movement is nimble and responsive, capable of mobilizing action at any given moment. The AFL-CIO is planning a summer of action, focusing on constitutional protections and the impact of the administration's policies on working people. The labor movement's commitment to fighting against Trump's immigration policies remains steadfast, with a long-term plan to build strength and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.