Immigrant City FC reflects the diversity of Los Angeles, emphasizing that its identity is deeply rooted in the immigrant community. The team, which comprises immigrants and is supported by a staff with similar backgrounds, showcases the vital role immigrants play in the city’s culture and sports.
Before a recent match, singer and actress Becky G, an Angel City founding investor and a local Los Angeles personality, read a powerful statement to fans. This statement, distributed in card form, expressed that the essence of Los Angeles is intertwined with its immigrant population, stating, “The fabric of this city is made of immigrants. Football does not exist without immigrants. This club does not exist without immigrants.”
Following a close match that ended in a 2-1 defeat, Angel City’s defender and club captain, Ali Riley, emphasized the significant role that immigrants play in football, asserting that the game and the club owe their existence to these communities. Riley poignantly stated, “Football, the game that we all love, we have it here because of immigrants.”
Earlier in the week, the NWSL Players Association, in solidarity with the WNBA Players Association, released a statement advocating for the dignity and respect of all individuals seeking safety and opportunity. The statement underscored the importance of compassion and support for immigrants, especially in light of recent immigration raids.
Furthermore, the fans of Los Angeles FC made a statement of their own by displaying an ‘Abolish ICE’ banner at the stadium, highlighting the ongoing discussions surrounding immigration enforcement in the area. In a recent match against Sporting Kansas City, the fans observed a moment of silence to draw attention to these issues.
Amidst these tensions, Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum called upon U.S. authorities to refrain from enforcing immigration regulations during recent high-profile events, showcasing the ongoing complexities surrounding the immigrant community in sports and broader society.
The narrative surrounding Immigrant City FC and the reactions from the sports community emphasize a commitment to inclusivity and the recognition of the immigrant experience as a fundamental aspect of the city’s identity. This outlook fosters hope and unity, allowing various communities to connect through the shared love of football.