**Dodgers Deny ICE Entry Amid Protests at Dodger Stadium**
The Los Angeles Dodgers announced on Thursday that they denied entry to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at Dodger Stadium. The team stated that ICE had requested access to the parking lots, but an ICE spokesperson later clarified that “ICE was never at Dodgers Stadium, and thus never tried to gain access.” In response to the Dodgers’ statement, ICE asserted on social media, “False. We were never there.”
Earlier that day, law enforcement was seen outside Dodger Stadium, initially thought to be ICE, which led to protests at the venue. Following ICE’s denial, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued a statement confirming that “CBP vehicles were in the stadium parking lot very briefly” and emphasized that their presence was “unrelated to any operation or enforcement.”
Protesters gathered at Dodger Stadium shortly after the law enforcement presence was reported, with some expressing their anger on social media. One account urged supporters to mobilize at Gate E of the ballpark.
The Dodgers are expected to announce later on Thursday their plans to support immigrant communities, although they have remained silent regarding the ongoing protests and unrest in the city. The team recently faced backlash after local singer Nessa performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” in Spanish as a protest against ICE raids, claiming she received death threats but felt validated by support from Latin celebrities.
Veteran player Enrique Hernández also took to social media to express his feelings about the situation, stating, “I may not be Born & Raised, but this city adopted me as one of their own. I am saddened and infuriated by what’s happening in our country and our city.” He emphasized the importance of treating all individuals with respect and dignity.
Other professional sports teams in Los Angeles have also shown solidarity, such as Angely City F.C. of the NWSL, which distributed “Immigrant City Football Club” T-shirts to fans during a recent game, with players wearing them during warm-ups to support the protests.
As the Dodgers prepare to make their announcement, the situation continues to unfold, highlighting the intersection of sports, community, and immigration issues in Los Angeles.
**FAQ**
**Q: What was the Dodgers’ response to ICE’s request for entry?**
A: The Dodgers denied ICE entry to Dodger Stadium, stating that the agents had requested access to the parking lots. ICE later clarified that they were never present at the stadium.
