Supporters chanted "Sí se puede!" as Huerta stepped out of a downtown Los Angeles federal courthouse where his arraignment took place. Huerta pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor charge of obstruction, resistance, or opposition of a federal officer.
"These charges are baseless. They are an attempt to silence anyone who dares to speak out," said Huerta.
The SEUI California and SEIU-USWW president, was arrested on June 6, the day the immigration raids began in Los Angeles. He was part of a group that arrived at one of the Ambiance Apparel businesses as federal officers arrested dozens of garment workers.
SEIU president injured, arrested during ICE raid in DTLA
Members say he was there to protect workers.
"I look forward to presenting my case and being exonerated. I will continue to stand with you until every worker and every family is safe from raids, separation and fear, and our constitutional rights are protected," said Huerta.
His arrest was documented on cellphone video. Huerta was tackled and pepper sprayed by federal agents while exercising his constitutional rights, said SEIU-USWW.
The U.S. Department of Justice accuses Huerta of blocking a gate, a vehicle and pushing a federal officer.
He was joined Tuesday by elected officials, including members of congress, SEIU members, and community-based organizations. Those denouncing the Justice Department call the charges unjust and part of a campaign of retaliation.
"We're also here to demonstrate our support to him and to every single other person who has raised their voice to stand up against the injustice, and to let the government know that we know that these cases and these chargers are without merit."
Reporting by ProPublica, found about 130 cases this year where U.S. citizens were arrested at raids and protests, including about a dozen elected officials, accused of interfering with or assaulting officers. Their reporting found that those cases were often dropped.
Huerta is due back in court in January.