CARSON, Calif. — While the Galaxy's supporter groups boycotted Saturday's thrilling 3-3 draw during El Tráfico at BMO Stadium, the club hosted an official watch party at Galaxy Park that drew dozens of fans - some protesting the team's inaction on immigration issues, others simply seeking alternative viewing.
The team-organized event became an unintentional gathering point for dissent as the Angel City Brigade, Galaxians and Galaxy Outlawz continued their four-game boycott over the club's silence on ICE raids in Los Angeles.
"It's depressing not being at the game, but this is for a good cause," said Diana Ojeda, 21, among attendees at the watch party. "We have to get our voices heard about what's happening in our community."
— Angel City Brigade (@ACBrigade) July 17, 2025
The Galaxy has faced growing fan discontent since June when ICE increased operations in Los Angeles.
While crosstown rivals LAFC issued a statement supporting immigrant communities, the Galaxy and every other MLS club remained silent - a decision that still frustrates supporters.
"The fact that LAFC is there for us but not our own team is insane," Ojeda said.
Tensions escalated when the club indefinitely banned Martin, a 12-year supporter, after he photographed a protest banner reading "AEG Loves Immigrant Dollars, But Not Immigrants" during a July 4 match.
A Galaxy staffer, speaking anonymously, said the watch party aimed to "provide a safe environment for fans," adding that some families don't feel comfortable attending matches at stadiums due to noise or other factors.
Among the crowd, opinions varied. Matthew Guzman, a fan since 2016, came primarily to enjoy the sporting aspect. "I understand the protests," he said, "but personally I'm just here for the game."
The atmosphere at recent home matches has suffered without the supporter groups. Wednesday's 2-1 loss to Austin FC saw an unusually quiet North End section at Dignity Health Sports Park.
During Saturday’s 3-3 draw, the watch party crowd's reactions were muted for most of the evening until the Galaxy’s late comeback rejuvenated the crowd on hand.
For protesters like Ojeda, the result mattered less than the message being sent by supporters.
Regardless of how things play out on the pitch the rest of 2025, the club now faces the challenge of mending relations with its most passionate supporters.