Pro-ICE Billboard Unveiled in San Francisco Ahead of Super Bowl LX
A digital billboard supporting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has appeared in San Francisco as the city gears up for Super Bowl LX. The billboard features a football-themed tribute to the agency, highlighting ICE’s role in national defense, and aims to coincide with an upcoming advertising campaign promoting stronger border security.
This promotional effort underscores ongoing debates surrounding immigration enforcement in the United States, particularly in areas like the Bay Area that have historically opposed ICE operations. The appearance of this ad is likely to further ignite discussions about the agency’s role in border security amidst the festivities of the Super Bowl.
Key Developments
- A billboard displaying “Defensive player of the year: ICE” has been positioned in San Francisco’s Fisherman’s Wharf.
- The ad was funded by the conservative nonprofit American Sovereignty and was unveiled on January 30.
- The organization also announced plans for a multimillion-dollar ad campaign promoting ICE and border security ahead of the Super Bowl.
- Many local activists and community groups have rallied against ICE, expressing concerns about potential enforcement actions during Super Bowl events.
- The NFL confirmed there will be no ICE operations during Super Bowl LX or related activities.
Full Report
Billboard and Campaign Launch
The digital billboard showcases a series of football-themed messages in support of ICE, including slogans such as “They can’t win without defense, neither can America” and “Cheering because the home team finally started investing in defense.” The outcome reflects a broader emphasis on national security that the sponsoring nonprofit aims to advocate during Super Bowl week.
In a statement on social media, American Sovereignty expressed gratitude toward ICE agents for their service, stating, “We are saluting the brave Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents who work every day in defense of America.” This campaign coincides with a push for greater awareness around border security.
Community Reactions
Despite the billboard’s message, the Bay Area has long been a stronghold of opposition to ICE, with community protests expressing fears that agency activities could escalate during the Super Bowl. Activists convened in San Jose on Monday, raising concerns about increased ICE visibility in the region during the event.
Official Statements
Addressing these concerns, the NFL’s Chief of Security, Cathy Lanier, confirmed in a press conference that no immigration enforcement operations by ICE are scheduled at Super Bowl events. This assurance aims to mitigate fears among residents and activists while maintaining a festive atmosphere surrounding the game.
Context & Previous Events
The conservative nonprofit American Sovereignty revealed its plans for a multimillion-dollar advertising campaign to promote ICE on January 30, shortly before the unveiling of the supportive billboard in San Francisco. Historically, the Bay Area has opposed ICE operations, and rising tensions surrounding immigration policy continue to fuel discussions within the community.
