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A coalition of Latino groups is asking the Dodgers and other local professional sports teams to step down bystanders as President Donald Trump’s immigrant bullets continue to send shockwaves throughout the community.
“We are calling on the Dodgers and other prominent LA sports teams to step up and support initiatives that will attract the Latino community in Greater Los Angeles,” organizers said in a news release.
The coalition, consisting of Little Latin America USA, California Rising, the El Salvador Corridor Association, CD1 Union and the LA Youth & Family Foundation, held a press conference outside Dodger Stadium Wednesday morning.
“This is an important opportunity for the Dodgers to participate in advocating for highly vulnerable cultural events and mutual aid efforts, many of whom have been long-standing Dodgers fans and have been negatively affected by ice enforcement measures,” the organizers said.
The group will also be sharing resources for families affected at Wednesday’s event.
Los Angeles’ Dodgers catcher Will Smith (16) hit a double against the San Diego Padres in two innings held at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California on June 17, 2025, and fans cheered loudly. (via GINAFERAZZI/LOS ANGELS TIMES GITY IMAGES)
The Dodgers enjoy widespread support among the Latino community in Southern California, dating back to 1981 with “Fernando Mania” when Mexican-born pitcher Fernando Valenzuela won the CY Young Award as a 20-year-old rookie.
But, like most professional sports teams, franchises generally avoid heavy on controversial political topics. Until now, only outfielder Enrique “Kyque” Hernandez has jumped into the fight.
“I am saddened and angry about what is going on in our country and in our city,” she posted on Instagram. “This is my second home. And we can’t see our community being violated, profiled, abused and torn apart. All people deserve to be treated with respect, dignity and human rights.”
On Saturday, Latin American pop singer Netza played “Star Spagurde Banner” in Spanish before his home game, contrary to his team’s wishes. The performance coincided with Metro Los Angeles’ widespread protests against Trump’s deportation policy, which led to daily migrant raids.
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