March 20,2026
RED FM News Desk
The mayor of Toronto is moving to block any role for U.S. immigration authorities in the city during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing concerns about public safety and community confidence.
Olivia Chow, with support from Councillor Paul Ainslie, has tabled a motion titled “No ICE in Toronto” that calls for the city to oppose any involvement by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The motion is set to go before city council in coming days
If approved, the proposal would see Toronto officially oppose ICE’s presence in the city, during the World Cup. It would also direct city staff to avoid any cooperation with the agency and call on both federal and provincial governments to block any potential deployment of ICE personnel.
The motion further requests that Canada’s federal ministers responsible for public safety and foreign affairs, as well as Ontario’s solicitor general, take a clear stance against ICE operating in Toronto. Council’s decision would also be shared with the Toronto Police Service Board.
Chow says the move is aimed at ensuring residents and visitors feel safe during the global event, emphasizing that Toronto’s diversity should be celebrated without fear. She has expressed concern that ICE’s involvement could create anxiety, particularly within immigrant communities.
Although ICE operates an office in Toronto, any enforcement actions by foreign agencies require approval from Canadian authorities. The motion emphasizes that the city should take a clear stance to maintain a welcoming environment as it prepares to host one of the world’s largest sporting events.
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