Angel City FC's Powerful Statement on Immigrant Rights

In a bold move to support immigrant communities, Angel City FC, based in Los Angeles, donned special shirts labeled 'Immigrant City Football Club' during their recent National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) home game against North Carolina. This initiative was a direct response to the ongoing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and the subsequent protests in Los Angeles.

Community Engagement and Solidarity

The club distributed 10,000 T-shirts to fans entering BMO Stadium, featuring the message 'Immigrant City Football Club' on the front and 'Los Angeles is for everyone / Los Angeles es para todos' on the back. The team's management and coaching staff also wore these shirts, reinforcing their commitment to the cause.

Voices from the Club

Yaoziuatl Martinez, Angel City's senior social media coordinator, emphasized, "Los Angeles is and always will be an immigrant city. 'Immigrant City FC' reflects not just the city's demographic but also who we are as a team. Our players and staff include immigrants, and this initiative mirrors our organizational identity."

Becky G's Pledge

Before the match, Becky G, a founding investor of Angel City and a native of Los Angeles, read a club statement distributed to supporters in card form. The statement highlighted, "The fabric of this city is made of immigrants. Football does not exist without immigrants. This club does not exist without immigrants."

Post-Match Reflections

Following a 2-1 defeat, club captain Ali Riley expressed, "Football, the game we all love, thrives here because of immigrants. Our club, a significant part of my life, owes its existence to immigrants."

League and Community Support

The NWSL Players Association, in collaboration with the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) Players Association, issued a statement supporting all individuals seeking safety, dignity, and opportunity, regardless of their origin or destination.

Related Activism

This event follows recent activism by Los Angeles FC fans, who displayed an 'Abolish ICE' banner and observed a moment of silence during their MLS victory over Sporting Kansas City. The Gold Cup match between Mexico and the Dominican Republic in Los Angeles proceeded without incident, despite prior security concerns.

Conclusion

Angel City FC's initiative not only highlights the team's values but also underscores the broader role of sports in societal issues, making a profound statement on immigrant rights and community solidarity in Los Angeles.