Bob Iger Endorses Angel City FC’s Stand Against Trump’s Immigration Policy
Despite his efforts to maintain distance from the political spotlight, Disney CEO Bob Iger has reportedly approved Angel City FC, a National Women’s Soccer League team he co-owns, to publicly voice opposition against the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
Angel City FC and Its Ownership
In 2024, Iger and his wife, Willow Bay, a former journalist, acquired a significant stake in Angel City FC for approximately $100 million. Their influence is evident as the team embraces a progressive stance, especially regarding immigration issues.
Iger’s Political Journey
- Past Affiliations: Previously a registered Democrat, Iger switched to independent in 2016.
- Presidential Aspirations: After retiring from Disney in 2021, Iger considered a run for president but returned to Disney following internal leadership challenges.
- Media Background: Willow Bay has a rich history in media, having worked with major networks like ABC News and CNN.
Disney’s Transformation and Recent Controversies
Disney has long identified with liberal values, but recent years have seen a backlash. Concerns over “woke” narratives in films have led to declining box office returns and public disputes with political figures.
Key Controversies Include:
- A significant dispute with Florida over legislation limiting specific educational content.
- Tensions leading to the dismissal of Bob Chapek, Iger’s predecessor, due to mishandling public relations.
Iger has aimed to realign Disney’s focus towards entertainment, distancing it from political evaluations. Recently, Disney settled a $16 million defamation lawsuit concerning comments made by ABC News staff.
Angel City FC’s Defiant Stance
Despite these efforts to avoid controversy, Angel City FC has been vocal against immigration raids initiated by the Trump administration. As a powerful statement, the club distributed 10,000 T-shirts reading “Immigrant City F.C.” with the slogan “Los Angeles Is For Everyone.”
Actions Taken:
- Pride Gear: Shirts were displayed prominently during their June 14 home game, highlighting the club’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Coach’s Support: Head coach Alexander Straus participated by wearing the shirt throughout the match.
- Community Engagement: The team has actively expressed solidarity with affected families via social media platforms, emphasizing the importance of belonging and community strength.
Embracing Diversity: A Declaration
During the early days of protests regarding immigration enforcement, Angel City FC released a heartfelt message on Instagram, expressing empathy towards those in fear and uncertainty. They stated:
"We believe in the power of belonging. Our city is stronger because of its diversity."
Leadership Commentary
Julie Uhrman, co-founder and CEO of Angel City FC, remarked:
"This moment was one of the most powerful statements Angel City has made."
She emphasized the organization’s commitment to supporting communities and advocating for equity in sports.
Ongoing Challenges
Despite their progressive stances, Angel City FC’s actions have not escaped scrutiny. The Trump administration remains critical of Disney and its associated entities, as FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has announced an investigation into alleged discriminatory practices related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts.
Conclusion
Iger’s support for Angel City FC’s stance against the Trump administration’s immigration policies showcases a potent intersection of sports and advocacy. As the team continues to champion diversity and inclusion, the broader implications for Disney and its leadership hang in the balance.
For more on Angel City FC and its community efforts, visit their official website.
