After facing mounting pressure to speak out, the Los Angeles Dodgers have announced a $1 million commitment to support immigrant families affected by recent federal immigration raids across Southern California.
The announcement, made Friday after a day-long delay prompted by the presence of federal agents at the team’s stadium, marks the Dodgers’ first public response to the growing backlash.
“In partnership with the City of Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Dodgers have committed $1 million toward direct financial assistance for families of immigrants impacted by recent events in the region,” read the beginning of the organization’s statement.
The Dodgers — criticized by immigrant-advocacy groups and community leaders for staying silent — said the financial pledge is only the beginning. The team plans to share more initiatives in the coming days “with local community and labor organizations” to further aid youth and families affected by the raids.
“What’s happening in Los Angeles has reverberated among thousands upon thousands of people, and we have heard the calls for us to take a leading role on behalf of those affected,” said Stan Kasten, president & CEO, Los Angeles Dodgers. “We believe that by committing resources and taking action, we will continue to support and uplift the communities of Greater Los Angeles.”
The Dodgers’ statement also emphasized the team and the city’s “proven ability to get financial resources to those in critical need,” encouraging other organizations to follow suit.
In the days leading up to the announcement, the team faced criticism from fans and immigrant groups for staying silent as ICE operations created fear across L.A. neighborhoods.
A coalition of Latino organizations urged the Dodgers and other professional sports teams to step up. Last weekend, Latin American pop singer Nezza defied the team’s reported request and performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” in Spanish before a home game — an act that coincided with protests against what activists are calling a “mass deportation program” tied to former President Trump’s immigration rhetoric.
The Dodgers later responded to Nezza’s performance, saying there were “no hard feelings” and that they “would be happy to have her back.”
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass praised the team’s decision to take action:
“I want to thank the Dodgers for leading with this action to support the immigrant community of Los Angeles. These last weeks have sent shockwaves of fear rippling through every neighborhood and have had a direct impact on our economy. My message to all Angelenos is clear: We will stick together during this time and we will not turn our backs on one another — that’s what makes this the greatest city in the world.”
