SouthernWorldwide.com – Workers at SoFi Stadium have voted to authorize a strike, a move that comes just a week before the venue is set to host the United States Men’s National Soccer Team for the World Cup.
The UNITE HERE Local 11 union has been in negotiations with Legends Global, the company managing hospitality services at the stadium. A significant point of contention remains the potential role of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the stadium during the World Cup games.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna stated this week that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security had informed him that federal authorities would be present at the matches to assist with security. However, he was assured that this presence would not extend to civil immigration enforcement.
Sheriff Luna expressed his trust in the information provided, acknowledging that any shift in this arrangement could lead to a new set of challenges. He noted that he relies on receiving appropriate information to manage potential issues.
Kurt Petersen, co-president of UNITE HERE Local 11, voiced strong concerns about the economic well-being of the stadium workers. He questioned the value of hosting the World Cup for Los Angeles if its workers struggle to afford rent and face the possibility of being apprehended by ICE.
Petersen warned that a strike could significantly disrupt the event, suggesting that the exclusive FIFA suites might be left with only basic provisions like bottled water and chips if workers are forced to walk out.
According to a press release reported by The Athletic, negotiations between the union and Legends Global are anticipated to resume on Monday.
The union’s press release emphasized the right of workers to strike if federal immigration enforcement enters the stadium and creates a genuine fear for their safety. It asserted that no worker should have to choose between their livelihood and their freedom.
Beyond the ICE concerns, the union is also demanding wages that adequately reflect the high cost of living in Los Angeles. This includes calls for premium pay for major events like the World Cup and contributions to a housing fund aimed at developing affordable housing for hospitality workers.
Legends Global, responsible for hospitality services at SoFi Stadium, has indicated its commitment to reaching an agreement with the union. The company highlighted its long-standing relationship with UNITE HERE Local 11 and its dedication to resolving the ongoing contract negotiations.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Legends Global expressed its anticipation of delivering an exceptional hospitality experience for fans attending the World Cup matches at SoFi Stadium.
The union has also filed a complaint with the California Attorney General. The complaint suggests that workers might be vulnerable to being targeted by ICE due to FIFA’s accreditation process for the event.
Todd Lyons, acting director of ICE, has previously stated that the agency would play a significant role in ensuring security throughout the tournament, a point corroborated by Sheriff Luna.
Concerns about immigration enforcement have also been raised by community groups in other World Cup host cities, including Atlanta and Miami. These groups have called for a suspension of U.S. immigration enforcement activities during the matches, fearing that potential arrests near stadiums and watch parties could detract from the celebratory atmosphere.
SoFi Stadium is scheduled to host a total of eight World Cup matches.
