Austin FC has responded to its supporters' groups following a walkout by some fans shortly after kickoff Saturday at Q2 Stadium in protest of the club's removal of a former city council candidate wearing an "Abolish ICE" shirt from the venue before a prior match.
In a statement on its social media channels, Austin FC said Friday it has met with the three supporters' groups - La Murga, Austin Anthem and Los Verdes - and has a "priority of protecting vulnerable members of our Hispanic and immigrant communities."
The Sept. 26 removal of Daniela Silva caused a significant amount of online backlash toward the club, which noted she was escorted from the stadium for violating Q2's venue policy, which states, "Signs, symbols, or images displayed for commercial purposes for electioneering, campaigning or advocating for or against any candidate, political party, legislative issues or government action is prohibited."
She was banned from the stadium for a year, per Q2's policy, the club has said. Austin FC officials told the American-Statesman on Friday that they contacted Silva and offered to rescind the ban. They added that Austin police still have a 12-month criminal trespass notice active for Silva.
In recent social media postings, the supporters' groups urged the club to take action on issues involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with La Murga encouraging Austin FC to come out publicly against it.
Austin FC: 'We empathize with the anxiety many' are feeling
Austin FC's full statement is as follows:
"Austin FC and the leaders of Austin Anthem, Los Verdes, and La Murga de Austin recently held a series of discussions focused on our shared priority of protecting vulnerable members of our Hispanic and immigrant communities. We empathize with the anxiety many in the Austin FC family are feeling right now, and we continue to stand firmly with you.
"Since Austin FC's inception, the club has consistently shown its support for the community we proudly call home through our actions, carried out by the many employees and volunteers who have the utmost devotion to creating a force for good in our city. Their work does not go unnoticed.
"We appreciate our supporters' groups and their leaders for their advocacy and commitment to ongoing dialogue. As a result of our discussions, several actions are already underway. We look forward to continuing to work collectively toward our shared vision of Q2 Stadium remaining a safe and welcoming place for all."
The shirt was worn about a week after an ICE officer shot a Venezuelan delivery driver in North Austin.
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This article originally published at Austin FC responds to walkout after removal of fan with 'Abolish ICE' shirt at Q2 Stadium.