Portland officials say city did not approve policies that led to removal of women's sports supporters

City officials in Portland are reviewing an incident at Providence Park where women’s sports supporters were struck and removed from a publicly owned soccer stadium. The city stated it was not involved in the decisions concerning the spectators and that the stadium operator, Peregrine, LLC, and its subcontractors are responsible. The Justice Department is also independently reviewing the incident for potential constitutional concerns, particularly regarding viewpoint discrimination.

• Portland officials are reviewing a filmed confrontation where women’s sports supporters were struck and removed from Providence Park.
• The city denies involvement in decisions regarding spectators and press, stating the stadium operator, Peregrine, LLC, and its subcontractors are responsible.
• The stadium operator’s agreement requires compliance with applicable laws and implementation of a security plan.
• Spectators are required to comply with the policies of the Thorns, NWSL, and Peregrine Sports, including the Providence Park Guest Guide.
• The Justice Department is also reviewing the incident for potential constitutional concerns, specifically viewpoint discrimination and First Amendment questions.
• The confrontation occurred during a Portland Thorns match when spectators revealed ‘Save Women’s Sports’ banners and were subsequently escorted out by security, with some being struck.