The Politics of Passion: How Spain Won Over New York’s Arab American Community

The streets of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, are abuzz with World Cup fever. Fans from the neighborhood’s large Arab American community are proudly donning Spanish jerseys and waving flags, their fervor going beyond mere football loyalty.

For Zein Rimawi, chairman of the Arab American Federation nonprofit, Spain’s recognition of Palestine in 2024 and its criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza are key factors in his support for the team. This sentiment resonates deeply within the community, with flags bearing the logos of participating teams fluttering outside businesses from Palestinian restaurants to Yemeni cafes.

The World Cup has become a celebration of unity and solidarity among Arab New Yorkers. Mahmoud Kasem, owner of Al-Aqsa Bakery, installed a large TV screen outside his restaurant to broadcast major matches, attracting people from across Bay Ridge. “It’s not just about business,” he said. “I love soccer. We’re infatuated with the game across the Arab world.”

Spain’s appeal to the Arab American community is rooted in historical and cultural ties between Spain and the Arab world. The two civilizations share a rich linguistic, musical, and artistic heritage, with Arabic being an official language in some Spanish regions. This bond is palpable in the neighborhood’s vibrant street art, where Palestinian emblems – graffiti, keffiyeh patterns, tatreez embroidery, and watermelons – adorn walls and buildings.

Spain’s recognition of Palestine as a sovereign state has earned it favor among Arab fans. The move was seen as a significant step towards acknowledging the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. This stance has been met with criticism from Israel, but for many Arabs, it’s a clear signal that Spain values human rights and dignity.

In contrast, Argentina’s ties to Israel have raised eyebrows within the community. Some fans have linked the Argentinian team to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government due to its pro-Israel policies. While Argentina has not taken an official stance on the conflict, the presence of Israeli flags at their matches with Egypt has been noted.

The deep-seated connections between football, politics, and identity are on full display in Bay Ridge. For many fans, supporting a team is not just about winning or losing – it’s about loyalty to a cause, a culture, or a people. Spain’s appeal transcends borders and nations, speaking to a shared sense of humanity that resonates across cultures.

As the final match approaches, one thing is certain: the politics of passion have taken center stage in Bay Ridge. The question now is whether Argentina will be able to counter Spain’s allure with its own brand of football – or whether the Spanish team’s solidarity with Palestine will seal their victory on and off the field.

The outcome may still be uncertain, but one thing is clear: this World Cup has been a celebration of unity, solidarity, and the power of football to transcend borders. As Kasem put it, “We’re for Spain with all our hearts.”