A supporters group for Nashville’s Major League Soccer team has decided to cancel their game day plans after recent immigration enforcement actions in Tennessee led to over 100 arrests.
La Brigada De Oro announced on social media that they would not hold their usual pre-game tailgate ahead of Saturday night’s match against Charlotte at Geodis Park.
Many supporters chose to boycott the game altogether.
“In tough times, families unite. When one of us is impacted, we all are. It doesn’t seem right to celebrate and have fun while so many families in our community face separation and turmoil,” the group expressed in their statement.
La Brigada de Oro is an officially recognized supporter group for Nashville SC.
During Saturday’s match, Nashville edged out Charlotte FC with a 2-1 victory, while fans in the stands displayed a banner reflecting their sentiments in both English and Spanish.
Federal officials and the Tennessee Highway Patrol have reported 588 individuals being halted, with 103 under investigation for immigration-related issues, according to the Highway Patrol’s announcement on Friday.
These enforcement measures commenced on May 3rd.
The operation has raised significant concern within Nashville’s immigrant community.
Data from the Immigration Policy Institute indicates that around 9% of the metropolitan area’s population are immigrants.
La Brigada de Oro shared their sorrow in a post, saying, “During this incredibly challenging time for our community, we feel heartbroken by the injustice, and we stand with the many families and friends affected.”
