Union Files Complaint Against FIFA and Kroenke Sports Over ICE Access at SoFi Stadium

UNITE HERE Local 11, a union representing over 30,000 workers in Southern California, has lodged a formal complaint with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) against FIFA, Kroenke Sports & Entertainment (KSE), and other associated parties. The complaint alleges that these entities have failed to restrict access to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at SoFi Stadium, which is set to host eight matches during the upcoming World Cup, including games featuring the United States men's national team.

New York Times

The complaint, filed on Thursday, specifically names KSE founder Stanley Kroenke and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, and claims that the parties have engaged in unfair labor practices as defined by the National Labor Relations Act. The union's concerns center on the potential presence of ICE agents at World Cup venues, which they argue could create a hostile work environment for their members, many of whom work in food and beverage concessions at the stadium.

New York Times

Kurt Petersen, co-president of UNITE HERE Local 11, emphasized that the union's priority is to prevent ICE from being present during the World Cup. He noted that workers from diverse backgrounds have expressed their collective opposition to ICE's potential involvement, stating, “We’re not going to tolerate having ICE in our stadium.” The union has threatened to strike if their demands are not met, highlighting a history of following through on such threats.

New York Times

The complaint filed with the NLRB also seeks an emergency injunction to restrict ICE access at SoFi Stadium, arguing that the presence of ICE could lead to intimidation and violence, thereby infringing on employees' rights to engage in union activities and collective bargaining.

New York Times

The NLRB has not commented on the union's complaint. Meanwhile, ICE's acting director, Todd Lyons, indicated in February that the agency would play a significant role in security during the World Cup, although he maintained that their primary focus would be on Homeland Security investigations. Concerns have been raised by members of Congress regarding the potential for ICE to conduct immigration enforcement raids near World Cup events.

New York Times

In response to the situation, the union has communicated to employers that if ICE appears at stadiums or other venues, workers may invoke health and safety provisions to refuse work, citing "unusually dangerous conditions." Petersen recounted a recent incident where workers walked off the job when ICE was present at a hotel.

New York Times

Critics of the union's stance argue that the presence of ICE is necessary for maintaining security at large events like the World Cup. However, union representatives maintain that the fear of ICE raids creates an unsafe environment for both workers and attendees, undermining the spirit of the event.

New York Times

As the World Cup approaches, the union's actions and the responses from FIFA and KSE will be closely monitored. The outcome of the NLRB complaint and any potential legal actions could significantly impact labor relations at SoFi Stadium and the broader context of labor rights in the United States.

New York Times