What Happened
Recently, Los Angeles Dodgers utility player Kiké Hernández publicly voiced his support for immigrants amid a backdrop of protests in Los Angeles against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions. His comments were made via an Instagram post on June 14, 2025, where he expressed his dismay over the militarized raids occurring in the city and highlighted the welcoming nature of Los Angeles, which he described as his second home. Hernández’s statement came during a period of nationwide protests against the Trump administration’s immigration policies, coinciding with a military parade in Washington, D.C., marking President Trump’s birthday and the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.
Hernández became the first member of the Dodgers to publicly address the immigration situation in Los Angeles, where protests had intensified over the preceding week. While Hernández’s post garnered attention, the Dodgers organization itself had not issued any formal statement regarding the protests or the immigration raids. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the unrest but noted his limited knowledge on the subject, indicating a cautious approach to the matter.
Key Details
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Kiké Hernández’s Statement: In his Instagram post, Hernández stated, “I may not be Born & Raised, but this city adopted me as one of their own,” emphasizing the importance of treating all individuals with respect and dignity. He used the hashtag #CityOfImmigrants to underscore his support for the immigrant community.
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Protests and Context: The protests in Los Angeles were part of a broader national movement against the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement policies, which included promises of extensive deportation operations. The protests in Los Angeles were marked by significant participation, with tens of thousands of demonstrators taking to the streets.
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Dodger Stadium Express: Despite curfew restrictions imposed by Mayor Karen Bass in response to the protests, the Dodger Stadium Express, a service providing transportation for fans between Union Station and Dodger Stadium, was confirmed to operate normally. The curfew was set from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. in areas most affected by the protests, but Dodger Stadium itself is located outside this zone.
Multiple Perspectives
Hernández’s comments reflect a growing trend among athletes using their platforms to speak on social issues, particularly those affecting their communities. His stance has been praised by supporters who view it as a courageous act of solidarity with marginalized groups. However, the Dodgers organization has remained relatively silent on the issue, which has led some fans and commentators to criticize the team for not taking a more active role in addressing community concerns.
Manager Dave Roberts’ comments suggest a more reserved approach, as he acknowledged the unrest but admitted to not being fully informed about the specifics of the situation. This response may reflect a broader trend among sports organizations, which often prioritize neutrality in politically charged matters to avoid alienating segments of their fan base.
Context & Background
The protests in Los Angeles are part of a larger national discourse surrounding immigration policy, particularly under the Trump administration, which has faced significant backlash for its enforcement tactics. The administration’s approach has included increased deportations and militarized raids, prompting widespread protests across various cities. Los Angeles, with its significant immigrant population, has been a focal point for these demonstrations.
Kiké Hernández, a Puerto Rican native, has previously criticized the Trump administration’s handling of crises in Puerto Rico, indicating a pattern of advocacy for social justice issues. His recent comments align with a growing movement among athletes to engage with and address societal challenges, leveraging their visibility to advocate for change.
What We Don’t Know Yet
While Hernández’s statement has sparked discussions about the role of athletes in social justice, the Dodgers organization has not clarified its position or future actions regarding the protests and immigration policies. It remains unclear whether the team will take a more active stance or issue a public statement in response to the ongoing situation. Additionally, the long-term impact of these protests on community relations and the Dodgers’ engagement with social issues is yet to be determined.
Furthermore, the effectiveness of the protests in influencing policy changes or public opinion remains uncertain, as does the potential for further unrest in response to immigration enforcement actions. The evolving political landscape and its implications for communities in Los Angeles and beyond will continue to be a critical area of observation in the coming months.
