ICE controversy continues to take over San Fran ahead of Super Bowl 60.
People in San Francisco grew upset this week after pro-ICE billboards appeared near Fisherman’s Wharf. The signs welcomed thousands of NFL fans arriving for Super Bowl events. Many locals felt the message was offensive and unnecessary.
The billboards stand at the busy corner of Jefferson and Mason streets. Tourists and football fans pass them constantly. Their placement increased tension as the city prepares for one of the biggest sports events of the year.
A group called American Sovereignty first shared photos of the billboards on social media. The group says it supports stronger border security and wants to stop human trafficking. The ads encourage support for Immigration and Customs Enforcement using football-style slogans.
Everyone who saw the signs in person did not hold back their frustration. Kim from St. Louis spoke to the Daily Mail during a visit to the area. “It’s really unnecessary,” she said. “If you’re already an American, you’ve already formed your opinion about ICE and that billboard is a waste of money.” Her husband Mark added, “I get angry when I see anything about ICE.”
Another visitor reacted with similar emotion. Anastasia Ray from Phoenix said, “That seems absolutely disgusting.” Her companion, Tyler, added fears about the possible targeting of travelers. “I wouldn’t be surprised if the entire time people were targeted while flying in just for the event,” he said.
Community Tensions Grow Before Super Bowl
One of the billboards shows a law enforcement officer holding a trophy. The words call ICE the Defensive Player of the Year. Another sign compares a football team’s defense to immigration enforcement. A third billboard praises a new investment in border defense with an image of Trump’s wall.
Susan Holder, an American citizen originally from Peru, also criticized the message. “What ICE is doing right now, that’s completely illegal,” she said. “I’m not going to agree with that.” She expressed concern for families affected by deportations. “Too many people, hard workers, are being deported,” she added.
The Trump administration plans to increase ICE presence in the Bay Area around the Super Bowl. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem recently said, “We’ll be all over that place.” A DHS official insisted law-abiding people have nothing to fear.
Local leaders continue to push back. Santa Clara County Sheriff Bob Jonsen said his department will not assist ICE operations. “We will not be working or supporting ICE Immigration Enforcement,” he announced.
Reports say ICE agents will not work inside Levi’s Stadium on game day. However, DHS officials say they will still have strong security across the area. The difference between federal plans and local protests has increased public concern.
The Super Bowl between the Patriots and Seahawks is only days away, and the billboards are still up. Fans continue to arrive, while arguments about immigration enforcement grow stronger across San Francisco.
