Backdraft

When Section 8 Chicago first approached the Chicago Fire regarding the allegations of racism at Toyota Park, we were obviously very disappointed in the club’s initial reaction. So disappointed that we felt we had to follow through with our plans for a silent protest at the game on August 16th. And while the team may have lost to D.C. United, the ISA truly hopes and believes that the overall result of voicing our concerns will be positive.

Read more: Moving Forward

In order to address some of the inaccuracies and misconceptions related to the current situation between Fire fans (as represented by the Section 8 Chicago ISA) and the Chicago Fire Soccer Club (as well as their contracted representatives, Toyota Park and Monterrey Security), we have prepared this FAQ -- a set of the most frequent questions recieved and their answers.

The ISA wishes to remain as transparent and clear in their representation as possible, in order to foster its maximum effectiveness in reaching a satisfactory conclusion.

*** PLEASE CHECK BACK REGULARLY AS QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WILL BE UPDATED ***

What exactly happened to Sector Latino on August 2nd against Chivas?

• A detailed account of the most recent event is located here :: Link to first account.

Read more: An FAQ on the current ISA/Fire situation

Monterrey Security’s racially motivated inequitable treatment of Hispanic Fire fans is unacceptable. Now that I’ve said that, I can move on. What is needed on the part of supporters now, if they do truly want a resolution to the problem, is patience and reason.

Fire supporters are, rightfully, willing to take action, and the planned protest should go forth as scheduled. However, after that, everyone needs to take a slow deep breath.

Read more: Reason and Patience Key to Success in Anti-Racism Campaign

Following last Saturday's Fire-Chivas game, the leadership of Sector Latino -- a supporters' group affiliated to Section 8 Chicago -- approached Ben Burton, ISA Chairman, and told him Sector Latino had received racial abuse from the security at Toyota Park. After a public meeting was held with Sector Latino and Fire fans on Wednesday, August 6th, about the issue, meetings were scheduled this week with the Chicago Fire.

On Monday, Ben Burton, Walter Arredondo of Sector Latino and myself met with several members of the Fire staff, Toyota Park staff, and a Village of Bridgeview official to detail the events of the previous game, and the numerous other problems Sector Latino have had as Walter explained they had been targeted by Monterrey Security since their emergence in 2005. The details of that meeting are posted here.

A second meeting was held last night at Toyota Park. Below is a full report.

Read more: Section 8 Chicago and Sector Latino Meet the Fire