World Cup Excitement in New York’s Immigrant Communities Amid Deportation Fears
Brooklyn – The anticipation surrounding the World Cup is fueling enthusiasm within New York’s immigrant communities, even as concerns over the Trump administration’s deportation policies loom large. Many residents worry that heightened immigration enforcement could dampen the celebratory spirit in neighborhoods like Brooklyn’s “Little Haiti.”
Earlier this week, a once-thriving block of shops in Little Haiti was notably quiet. Mahalia Desrosias, project manager for the civil society organization Little Haiti BK, reported several business closures, despite the absence of any raids by immigration authorities. However, with Haiti’s first World Cup appearance in over 50 years on the horizon, she remains optimistic about revitalizing community pride.
Desrosias noted, “The World Cup will offer a sense of life, hope, and energy. Haitians will proudly display their flag everywhere—let’s paint this city red and blue.” City officials are actively visiting immigrant neighborhoods in preparation for the opening match on June 11, promoting various FIFA-related opportunities to engage residents and tourists alike.
The New York City tourism board is compiling a calendar filled with FIFA events, inviting visitors to experience the vibrant atmosphere in neighborhoods where passion for the game runs deep. In an effort to encourage attendance, the city plans to release a promotional video highlighting local watch parties.
An initiative called the Five Borough Winners Special further supports food and beverage establishments by providing complimentary drink cups in celebration of the World Cup. Jack Blainville, senior liaison officer for New York City’s Small Business Services (SBS), explained, “With FIFA, businesses can tap into new markets and attract visitors who may have never explored their establishments before.” The program features five dishwasher-safe commemorative cups, each representing one of New York City’s five boroughs, encouraging tourists to collect and showcase them on social media.
As of May 20, around 600 businesses have signed up for this promotional initiative. Blainville envisions a festive atmosphere across the boroughs, highlighting New York’s rich cultural diversity. “Depending on the match schedule, individuals will gravitate towards neighborhoods like Little Haiti for Haiti’s game or Little Senegal for their matches,” he predicted. “The vibrancy of fans from different countries will create an electric atmosphere throughout the city.”
Economic Impact of Deportation Policies on Immigrant Businesses
New York’s immigrant communities have increasingly felt under siege since President Trump resumed his mass deportation campaign. City officials have reported anecdotal evidence of economic damage but lack the tools to quantify the broader impact. During a recent City Council hearing, SBS Chief of Staff Haris Khan stated that the agency does not collect sales data from individual businesses or implement software to monitor foot traffic, indicating a significant gap in understanding the economic landscape.
While SBS tracks real estate metrics, Khan emphasized, “A healthy occupancy rate does not necessarily reflect a positive situation for immigrant communities.” Although the agency views the World Cup as a prospect for healing, he acknowledged that it cannot fully compensate for over a year and a half of hardship faced by many businesses in these neighborhoods.
At the Golden Blue Bar & Restaurant, located in Little Haiti, the challenges have been considerable. After facing difficulties during the pandemic that coincided with its opening in 2020, the establishment is now confronting fears related to violence against migrants. Amantha Cherry, who helps manage her family’s restaurant, expressed optimism that the community will rally together for the celebration. With ticket prices for the opening match against Scotland exceeding $600 on resale sites like Stubhub, Cherry noted, “Considering these prices, we actually stand to benefit from this event.”
The restaurant, known for its “Mini Golden Delight” plantains and savory empanadas, boasts two televisions and a garden room ready for game-day gatherings. ”I’ve been struggling with the portrayal of Haiti in the media as a dangerous place,” Cherry reflected. “Yet our culture is full of resilience and beauty. I’m thrilled that we’re finally receiving attention for the positive contributions we make.”
© 2026 AFP
