Nashville group cancels events surrounding MLS game, cites immigration arrests

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A supporters group for Nashville's Major League Soccer team canceled game-day activities following recent U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations in Tennessee that have resulted in more than 100 people taken into custody.

The group La Brigada De Oro posted a statement on social media announcing the decision to cancel its pregame tailgate at Nashville's match on Saturday night against Charlotte at Geodis Park. Many in the group also boycotted the game.

“During difficult times, family stands together — when one of us is affected, we all are. And at this moment it doesn't feel prudent to celebrate, cheer and party while so many families within our community are being separated and destroyed,” the group said in a statement.

La Brigada De Oro is an officially recognized supporter group for Nashville SC. During Saturday's game, a 2-1 Nashville win over Charlotte FC, fans in attendance spread out banners in the stands that said in English and Spanish: “We are not all here.”

Federal authorities and the Tennessee Highway Patrol have made 588 traffic stops and took 103 people under investigation for immigration violations, the highway patrol said Friday. The operation started on May 3.

The operation has caused worry and concern among Nashville's immigrant community. About 9% of the city's metropolitan area population of about 2 million are immigrants, according to the Migration Policy Institute’s analysis of census data.

“At this most difficult time in our community. Our heart breaks at this injustice and goes out to so many families and friends being affected,” La Brigada De Oro said in its post.

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