In brief
In Portland, Oregon, a soccer tournament dedicated to immigrant and refugee girls brought joy, community and solidarity to participants, many of whom have been directly affected by immigration issues. Organized by community advocate Som Subedi, the event aimed to alleviate fears from federal ICE operations while fostering connections among diverse cultures. With dozens of volunteers supporting the cause, the tournament emphasized not just competition, but the importance of belonging and safety within the community.
PORTLAND, Ore. — Push! Press! Good ball! The sound of encouragement rang out as girls participated in a spirited soccer tournament dubbed the World Cup for immigrant and refugee girls this past Sunday.
Hosted in Portland, Oregon, by community advocate Som Subedi, an immigrant from Bhutan, this special event aimed to provide a joyful outlet for these young athletes amid the ongoing fears tied to federal immigration enforcement that have gripped many families in the community.
ICE and federal enforcement must be out of our parking lots, out of our soccer fields, and most importantly, out of the fear in our hearts and minds, Subedi said during the opening ceremony, referring to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
For these girls, many aged 10-18, participating in the tournament meant more than just playing soccer. Valeria Hernandez, a 15-year-old participant, expressed her emotions as she recalled her brother's deportation to Mexico late last year. He was my best friend, she tearfully shared, emphasizing the impact the situation had on her ability to attend practice.
Amid these pressures, the tournament succeeded in providing a sense of community and belonging. Local police officers and immigrant rights advocates attended to ensure everyone's safety, emphasizing that their presence was meant to foster a protective, supportive environment rather than a policing one. Their involvement reassured many parents and participants who sought safety in numbers, especially given recent heightened immigration enforcement.
Esraa Alnabelsi, who emigrated from Syria in 2012, shared her excitement, saying, We really have to be in one hand to face all that’s happening now in Oregon and other states. In a demonstration of unity, the event included players from all backgrounds and experiences, highlighting the common love for the sport.
Subedi's mission was clear: to create a welcoming environment where these girls could feel valued and celebrated. The event offered trophies to the top two teams and provided all necessary gear to the participants for free, a testament to the community's commitment to support immigrant and refugee families.
As the tournament wrapped up under the bright Portland sun, the smiles on the faces of the players illustrated the success of Subedi’s vision—a collective joy infused with hope and resilience, underscoring that soccer, a game loved globally, truly knows no borders.
