Vendors vs ICE: The Unsettling Reality of the World Cup’s Shadow Economy

The upcoming World Cup in Southern California has brought forth a mix of excitement and unease, not just for soccer fans but also for vendors who rely on these events to make a living. Amidst the prospect of international visitors and elite athletes descending upon SoFi Stadium, another potential arrival is causing concern: ICE agents.

For vendors like Henrry Josue and Juan Tzita, selling merchandise and food outside stadiums in the region, the possibility of ICE presence at World Cup games is a double-edged sword. On one hand, they stand to earn significantly more during these events, potentially doubling or even tripling their usual earnings. However, this also means that they would have to confront a very real risk: being detained by immigration authorities.

The threat of ICE presence has been amplified by the recent NBC News report stating that federal officers and agents who arrest immigrants as part of their work with ICE may be at World Cup matches. While DHS officials claim that these officers will not be checking spectators or employees for immigration status, the mere presence of ICE is enough to create a chilling effect among vendors.

The union representing workers inside SoFi Stadium, UNITE HERE Local 11, has threatened to strike if several conditions aren’t met – including keeping ICE out of games. This move comes on the heels of last year’s ICE raids in the Los Angeles area, which targeted day laborers and factory workers, sparking widespread protests and clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement.

The community is still reeling from these events, with vendors already struggling to make ends meet due to decreased business following the raids. Sergio Jimenez, co-founder of the Community Power Collective, an L.A.-based nonprofit that advocates for vendors, highlights the unfair choice that many are facing: “We shouldn’t have those choices, to gamble one’s lives just to ensure there’s access to an economic opportunity.”

The presence of ICE at World Cup games is not a new concern. Last year’s raids in the Los Angeles area serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of such actions. The widespread protests, clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement, and deployment of the National Guard all point to a deeper issue: the eroding trust between communities and law enforcement.

Vendors who sell merchandise and food outside stadiums are not just entrepreneurs; they are often undocumented workers who rely on these events to make a living. Their livelihoods depend on setting up shop, selling their wares, and earning enough to support themselves and their families. However, this shadow economy is not new – vendors have been adapting to the changing landscape of events in the region for years.

The union representing workers inside SoFi Stadium has filed a complaint with the California Privacy Protection Agency and the California Department of Justice, alleging that FIFA is collecting sensitive personal data and sharing it with DHS. This move highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in high-profile sporting events.

As the World Cup approaches, it’s crucial to address the concerns of vendors and community members. Working towards a solution that prioritizes their safety, economic stability, and access to fair labor practices is essential. For vendors like Henrry Josue and Juan Tzita, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether they can continue to sell at World Cup games without fear of ICE presence. As the community rallies around them, it’s clear that there is a willingness to fight for their rights and livelihoods.

The outcome of this story will have far-reaching implications for communities across Southern California. Will the union’s demands be met, or will vendors be forced to navigate this treacherous landscape alone? The future remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the safety and well-being of these workers must take precedence over any economic interests.