Empire Sports Bar — Fund to Fight for Justice

A Direct Message to the Community

Stand With Empire Sports Bar

Empire Sports Bar represents more than a place to gather. It represents an American dream that started with nothing.

The owner of Empire Sports Bar came to America from Turkey with no money, no connections, and no safety net — just a willingness to work hard and believe in this country. Like so many immigrants, he trusted that if he followed the rules, paid what was required, and invested honestly, he could build a life and a future here.

Through years of sacrifice, long hours, and personal risk, he built Empire Sports Bar from the ground up. It became not just a business, but a place where people connected, celebrated, and felt at home.

Today, that dream is under threat.

Over the past year, Empire Sports Bar and its owner have faced serious financial and legal challenges tied to actions taken by the Borough. Payments were made in good faith, yet money later acknowledged in writing has not been fully returned. These facts are supported by OPRA records and official correspondence, leaving the owner trapped in a prolonged and exhausting fight just to recover funds that should never have been taken.

What makes this especially heartbreaking is the emotional toll. To come to this country with nothing, work tirelessly toward the American Dream, and then feel like everything you built could be taken away is devastating.

This fundraiser was organized by members of the community — not the owner — because watching this happen in silence didn’t feel right. No one who came here to work honestly and build a future should be worn down until they lose everything.

Every donation, even $5, helps relieve the burden of legal costs, record requests, and the fight to protect what was built from nothing.

Thank you for standing with Empire. Thank you for standing up for the American Dream.