In Boston, the excitement for Brazilian soccer team Flamengo is palpable among supporters like Manny Mizael, who has been a lifelong fan since relocating from Brazil. However, this year’s fervor is overshadowed by anxiety stemming from the Trump administration’s stringent immigration policies.
As the Club World Cup approaches, expected to attract millions to the United States, fans are worried more about their safety than the soccer matches. WhatsApp groups, where fans used to share match excitement, are now rife with concerns about potential immigration raids at gathering spots. Mizael, joined by other supporters in Massachusetts, made the decision to cancel a February watch party due to fears that the event could become a target for immigration enforcement.
“People are being snatched off the streets and getting arrested,” Mizael explained. This atmosphere of fear not only affects immediate gatherings but also casts a shadow over the upcoming World Cup, where many fans had planned to travel and celebrate their beloved sport. The World Cup usually represents an opportunity for fans to invest considerable time and resources, often saving for years to join in on the festivities.
As the tournament draws closer, the intersection of sports passion, immigration policy, and community identity remains a poignant issue, reflecting the delicate balance between cultural celebration and personal safety in turbulent times.
