Body of News Release
“As we welcome the world to the Bay Area for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, we want to send a clear message: everyone belongs here.
“Our region has always drawn strength from welcoming people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, languages, and traditions. Diversity is central to who we are, and it is reflected every day in our neighborhoods, businesses, schools, places of worship, and on our playing fields.
“As elected officials and community leaders, we also recognize that these are uncertain times for many residents, including local immigrant families and visitors. Ongoing immigration enforcement actions have created fear and anxiety for our friends and neighbors. We see that concern, and we recognize that many people do not feel safe right now.
“The 2026 FIFA World Cup is an opportunity to bring people together. As we celebrate our teams on the pitch and our communities in the stands, at viewing parties, and in backyards and living rooms, we hope these matches become a moment of connection, pride, and shared humanity — a reminder that our diversity is one of our greatest strengths.
“To every visitor, every fan, and every family who calls this region home: you are welcome here. We are proud to stand together in the spirit of inclusion, respect, and community as we welcome the world to the Bay Area.”
Statement Signatories
Supervisor Margaret Abe-Koga, Santa Clara County
Supervisor Luis A. Alejo, Monterey County
Supervisor Liz Alessio, Napa County
Supervisor Sylvia Arenas, Santa Clara County
Supervisor David Canepa, San Mateo County
Supervisor Ken Carlson, Contra Costa County
Supervisor Noelia Corzo, San Mateo County
Supervisor Anne Cottrell, Napa County
Supervisor Betty Duong, Santa Clara County
Supervisor Susan Ellenberg, Santa Clara County
Supervisor Joelle Gallagher, Napa County
Supervisor Lisa Gauthier, San Mateo County
Supervisor John Gioia, Contra Costa County
Supervisor Rebecca Hermosillo, Sonoma County
Supervisor Felipe Hernandez, Santa Cruz County
Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, Sonoma County
Supervisor Cassandra James, Solano County
Supervisor Otto Lee, Santa Clara County
Supervisor Chris Lopez, Monterey County
Supervisor Eric Lucan, Marin County
Supervisor Amber Manfree, Napa County
Supervisor Elisa Márquez, Alameda County
Supervisor Monica Martinez, Santa Cruz County
Supervisor Ray Mueller, San Mateo County
Supervisor Belia Ramos, Napa County
Supervisor Dennis Rodoni, Marin County
Supervisor Mary Sackett, Marin County
Supervisor Danny Sauter, San Francisco City and County
Supervisor Shanelle Scales-Preston, Contra Costa County
Supervisor Jackie Speier, San Mateo County
Valarie Bachelor, Oakland Unified School Board Vice President
Pablo Benavente, City of Concord Councilmember
Jennifer Brouhard, Oakland Unified School Board Director
MariaElena De La Garza, Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County, Inc.
Angela Di Novella, Catholic Charities Diocese of Monterey
Tanya Harmony M. Ridino, JD, Harmony Law
Adriana Melgoza, The Watsonville Law Center
Luis Zaragoza, North Bay Rapid Response Network
California Childcare Safety Plan Coalition
YARR (Your Allied Rapid Response) of Santa Cruz County
Rapid Response Networks
We are asking the public to build power, not panic, and to avoid spreading fear or misinformation. Use the Rapid Response Network in your area to share and receive accurate and verified information.
Alameda County: 510-241-4011
Contra Costa County: 925-900-5151
Marin County: 415-991-4545
Monterey County: 831-204-8082
Napa County: 707-800-4544
San Benito County: 831-204-8082
San Francisco City and County: 415-200-1548
San Mateo County: 203-666-4472
Santa Clara County: 408-290-1144
Santa Cruz County: 831-239-4289
Solano County: 707-800-4544
Sonoma County: 707-800-4544
For additional safety and community resources, visit: www.Safety4theBay.org.
Marin County Resources
Marin County stands by its ongoing commitment to supporting immigrant communities and democratic values. That commitment is reflected in recent Board actions, including the January 15, 2025 resolution affirming the County’s commitment to democracy and community, and the March 6, 2025 allocation of resources to support immigrant communities. Additional information is available through the County of Marin Immigrant Rights & Resources webpage and the County of Marin 2026 Legislative Platform.