Dodgers pledge $1 Million to support immigrant families affected by southern California raids

Los Angeles, California – Following a wave of federal immigration raids across Southern California, the Los Angeles Dodgers have committed $1 million in relief funding for affected immigrant families. The announcement comes amid mounting public pressure for the team to respond to an intensifying political and humanitarian crisis unfolding just outside its gates.

In a carefully worded five-paragraph statement released Friday, the Dodgers said the money would go toward families “impacted by recent events in the region.” Without directly criticizing federal immigration policy, the donation by the Dodgers is its most public step in response to raids, which have led to widespread fear and disruption across the south land.

The donation will be distributed through partnerships with the California Community Foundation, the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, and other local organizations that provide direct assistance to immigrant households. Team president Stan Kasten acknowledged the broader emotional and economic toll of the raids and said the team’s role extends beyond baseball.

“What’s happening in Los Angeles has reverberated among thousands upon thousands of people, and we have heard the calls for us to take a leading role on behalf of those affected,” Kasten said. “We believe that by committing resources and taking action, we will continue to support and uplift the communities of Greater Los Angeles.”

The donation follows a tense standoff Thursday at Dodger Stadium, when dozens of federal immigration agents arrived in SUVs and cargo vans and assembled near Gate E. Protesters quickly gathered in response, and team officials asked federal agents to leave the property. The incident, widely shared online, intensified calls for the Dodgers to publicly break their silence.

Manager Dave Roberts praised the donation but remained cautious in his remarks. “It’s certainly the right thing to do,” he said before Friday night’s game against the Nationals. “I’m happy to hear the Dodgers have stepped up.”

Some current and former Dodgers have gone further. Kiké Hernández, a native of Puerto Rico, criticized the raids on social media last week. Legendary broadcaster Jaime Jarrín also voiced concern, citing the deep connection between the team and its Latino fan base.

Mayor Karen Bass commended the Dodgers for what she called “leading with action.”

With nearly 40% of the Dodgers’ fan base identifying as Latino, political leaders like Rep. Jimmy Gomez had pushed the organization to respond more forcefully. On Friday, he wrote: “Silence is not an option. It’s a choice.”