Toronto Bans ICE at World Cup: A Welcoming City

0:00This is Cory with the story, keeping Toronto in the know you're listening to Toronto News today. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chao has introduced a motion called No Ice in Toronto to block US immigration and customs enforcement agents from operating in. The city during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The proposal, backed by Councillor Paul Ainsley, urges City Council to oppose any ice presence and tell staff to steer clear of helping them out. The motion pushes for the federal public safety minister and foreign affairs minister to reject ICE deployments here. It also asks Ontario solicitor general to stand against it, especially with the World Cup games coming up and once the decision sent to the Toronto Police Service Board. City leaders say Toronto should feel welcoming and safe for everyone, including the thousands of visitors during the tournament. They point to ICE actions like incidents in Minnesota where two US citizens were killed as reasons it could spark fear instead of celebration. Toronto will host six World Cup matches from June 12th to July 2nd.

1:04The motion notes ICE highs operated outside the US, even in Canada before, which could disrupt the event. This comes after Vancouver's mayor declared ICE unwelcome there too, ahead of their seven gains, sticking to local police for security. With both cities gearing up, Council will soon vote on Toronto's plan to keep the focus on unity.