June 10 – Fans of MLS club LAFC protested the Trump administration’s crackdown on immigrants in Los Angeles during Sunday’s 3-1 win over Sporting Kansas City.
Tensions in LA have reached fever pitch over the past week as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted raids in several locations across the city – actions which have sparked protests citywide.
In these raids, U.S. President Donald Trump deployed 2,000 National Guard troops to LA despite the objections of California Governor Gavin Newsom.
Amid that backdrop, LAFC hosted Sporting KC in an MLS match at BMO Stadium in downtown Los Angeles. Prior to the game, fans unfurled banners that read: “Abolish ICE” and: “Immigrants are the heartbeat of Los Angeles.”
After the final whistle, LAFC forward Jeremy Ebobisse spoke candidly about the atmosphere in the city. “What’s happening in Los Angeles is not normal, and we can’t treat it like it is,” he said. “It’s been a painful moment for the city. I live downtown, and I’ve seen and heard what’s unfolding. It breaks your heart to witness the harsh actions taking place in our streets.”
Ahead of the game, LAFC issued a statement affirming solidarity with the community during a time of widespread unease.
“LAFC believes the true strength of our community comes from the people and cultures that form the fabric of this beautiful and diverse city,” the club said. “Today, as many in our city experience fear and uncertainty, LAFC stands shoulder to shoulder with all members of our community. We are with you, Los Angeles.”
The events in Los Angeles echoed similar scenes in Nashville last month, where La Brigada De Oro — a Latin American supporters group for Nashville SC — boycotted a match amid concerns over immigration enforcement.
In their absence, fans in the stadium held bilingual signs reading: “We are not all here.”
Contact the writer of this story, Harry Ewing, at moc.l1749625160labto1749625160ofdlr1749625160owedi1749625160sni@g1749625160niwe.1749625160yrrah1749625160