New England-based immigrant support groups are warning FIFA World Cup fans to know their rights before traveling to the United States.

The groups say federal ICE agents have engaged in racially motivated arrests of people with no criminal background, causing physical and psychological harm.

Panagioti Tsolkas, communications manager for the Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition, said tourists should have an emergency contingency plan in case they are detained.

“Right now, there’s atrocities and human rights violations occurring, and there are risks,” Tsolkas said. “It’s not a safe time to be traveling, and people should be aware of that.”

Tsolkas said FIFA and the “Boston 26” organizing committee should uphold their human rights statements and keep ICE away from the games.

Federal officials say no enforcement actions are planned, but agents may be stationed at some venues to help with security.

Immigrants have played a large role in the history and growth of soccer in the United States. International head coaches make up a large percentage of Major League Soccer leadership, and refugees have organized amateur and youth recreational leagues.

Tsolkas said the FIFA games are a celebration of cultures, and he hopes people of all nationalities can attend public watch parties in peace. Still, he said, it is important for visitors to understand that due process and other protections in the United States are no longer guaranteed.

“A lot of people are upset about what’s happening and the possibility that their participation in World Cup activities doesn’t feel as safe as it should," Tsolkas said, "because it’s a time that everyone from all over the world celebrates this beautiful game together.”

Tsolkas said he hopes soccer fans enjoy all that New England has to offer during their visit, including fresh lobster rolls and the wild blueberries of Maine — two iconic regional staples made possible by the work of immigrants, some of whom may be soccer fans themselves.

Support for this reporting was provided by the Andrew Carnegie Foundation, formerly Carnegie Corporation of New York

Source: Public News Service