Workers at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles have voted to authorize a strike, just one week before the venue is set to host the US Men’s National Soccer Team for the World Cup.
The UNITE HERE Local 11 union is deadlocked with hospitality operator Legends Global over a new contract. A key sticking point: the role of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) inside the stadium during the international tournament.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna stated that while federal authorities will assist with security, they will not conduct civil immigration enforcement-though he acknowledged that could change, which would cause “a whole new host of problems.”
"What good is the World Cup for Los Angeles when workers don’t earn enough to pay the rent and must choose between showing up and being kidnapped by ICE?" said Kurt Petersen, co-president of UNITE HERE Local 11. "If we’re forced to strike, those $100,000 FIFA suites will have nothing but bottled water and Doritos."
The union is demanding a clause allowing workers to walk off the job if federal immigration agents enter the stadium. It also seeks premium pay for mega-events and contributions to a housing fund for hospitality workers.
Legends Global says it is committed to reaching a deal. The union has also filed a complaint with the California attorney general, arguing FIFA’s accreditation process could expose workers to ICE targeting.
ICE acting director Todd Lyons has stated the agency will play a “key part” in tournament security. Similar concerns have been raised in other World Cup host cities, including Atlanta and Miami.
SoFi Stadium is scheduled to host eight World Cup matches. Further negotiations are expected Monday.