Immigrant FC: Soccer Team Champions Immigrant Identity
In a powerful demonstration of solidarity, a professional soccer club is celebrating its immigrant roots. The team, with its players and staff, is openly embracing its identity. This stance comes amid broader discussions about immigration, social justice, and the sport’s global nature.
Team Celebrates Immigrant Heritage
The team, “Immigrant City FC,” emphasizes its composition and the community it represents. Actress and investor Becky G, a Los Angeles native and Angel City founding investor, read a statement from the club. It was distributed to supporters before a game.
Football does not exist without immigrants. This club does not exist without immigrants. 🫡
— Angel City FC (@weareangelcity) June 5, 2024
“The fabric of this city is made of immigrants. Football does not exist without immigrants. This club does not exist without immigrants.”
—Club Statement
Ali Riley, Angel City’s defender and captain, also expressed support. According to the Pew Research Center, immigrants make up approximately 13.6% of the total U.S. population (Source 2023).
Broader Solidarity and Controversy
The NWSL Players Association, in collaboration with the WNBA Players Association, released a statement on the issue. The statement declared solidarity with people seeking safety and dignity, regardless of origin.
However, not everyone agrees with the club’s position. In a prior match, fans of Los Angeles FC unfurled an “Abolish ICE” banner. They also maintained silence during their team’s game against Sporting Kansas City.
In related events, Claudia Sheinbaum, Mexico’s President, asked U.S. authorities to refrain from targeting fans at a recent match in Inglewood. The Mexico team changed hotels for security reasons.
The club’s celebration of its immigrant composition reflects a broader conversation about the sport’s global nature. Moreover, it sparks contemplation about the intersection of sports, identity, and social justice.
