A hospitality union that represents about 2,000 workers at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles has threatened to strike during the World Cup if Fifa leaders do not heed their concerns about working conditions and the presence of Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
This summer, SoFi Stadium will be thrust into the national spotlight as it hosts eight World Cup matches. Between June and July, Los Angeles is estimated to see 150,000 more out-of-town visitors than typical for the time period.
Kurt Petersen, co-president of Unite Here Local 11, outlined a slew of union demands in a letter addressed to Fifa president Gianni Infantino and Stan Kroenke, the billionaire sports mogul who built the stadium.
Petersen called for the leaders to abide by fair working practices, citing allegations of wage theft overseas during past iterations of the tournament.
Petersen also demanded Fifa issue a public statement saying ICE has no place in the city or at the games.
In February, New Jersey congresswoman Nellie Pou asked ICE’s acting director Todd Lyons at a House hearing if the agency would pause enforcement operations at this year’s tournament amid controversy after immigration officers on separate occasions shot and killed two American citizens in Minnesota.
“ICE, specifically homeland security investigations, is a key part of the overall security apparatus for the World Cup,” Lyons replied.
In his letter, Petersen also characterized Airbnb, the short-term rental giant, as a factor contributing to the city’s shortage of affordable housing. He requested that Fifa cut ties with the company and contribute to a housing fund for the hospitality workers.
Earlier this year, Airbnb rolled out a $750 incentive in a move to court first-time hosts in North American cities holding World Cup matches.
“The world will be watching Los Angeles this summer. Billions of fans will see the city as Fifa intends to present it – welcoming, and alive with possibility. But behind every meal served and every drink served will be workers who deserve more than promises. They deserve safe and fair working conditions and a community they can afford to live in,” Petersen wrote.
