Dodgers Reject ICE Access at Ballpark

On Thursday, the Los Angeles Dodgers officially stated that they would not allow U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to enter the ballpark area. This announcement came shortly after it was reported that ICE agents were spotted outside Chavez Valley Stadium.

The Dodgers clarified that they had “requested permission to access the parking lot” as tensions escalated with the presence of federal officials. Soon after, protesters began making their way towards Dodger Stadium.

Some social media users expressed strong sentiments, labeling the agents’ actions as unwelcome intrusions. One account encouraged mobilization at Gate E of the stadium, insisting on the necessity of support for the protest.

An announcement from the Dodgers regarding their backing of the immigrant community is expected later today. Meanwhile, the team has remained silent amid ongoing protests in the city.

Recently, the situation gained further attention due to a local singer, Nessa, who performed the national anthem in Spanish as a protest against ICE’s actions. Following her performance, she reported receiving death threats but also noted that many Latin celebrities voiced their support for her decision.

In the midst of these events, veteran player Enrique Hernandez shared his thoughts on social media, referencing the protests and the negative impacts on the community.

Hernandez expressed his feelings about being welcomed by Dodger fans and emphasized the importance of respect and dignity for all individuals. He stated, “All people deserve to be treated with respect, dignity and human rights,” adding the hashtag #cityofimmigrants.

Other sports teams in Los Angeles, like Angel City FC, have shown solidarity by distributing “Immigrant City Football Club” t-shirts at their games and wearing them during warm-ups.

The wave of protests coincided with a larger national moment, as many across the country gathered to oppose actions taken by the military during a parade in Washington, D.C., which fell on Donald Trump’s birthday, significant for the U.S. Army as well.