David Huerta, head of Service Employees International Union California, the state’s largest union, has pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor after he was arrested and accused of obstructing an ICE raid in Los Angeles in June. Prosecutors had initially charged him with a felony, which would have carried a maximum sentence of six years in prison if convicted. David Huerta spoke outside court on Tuesday.

David Huerta: “These charges are baseless. They’re an attempt to silence anyone who dares to speak out, organize or demand justice. I will not be silenced. 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.”