EXTRAORDINARY event brings people of Israel and Bhutan together
Dear friends,
I am thrilled to announce the GREAT SUCCESS of the historic Chess4Solidarity event between Israeli and Bhutanese chess players last week. Over 200 players came together over Zoom, demonstrating INSPIRING unity at a time when the world needs it most. The Lawfare Project is proud to have sponsored the Chess4Solidarity event alongside Chess4All and the Embassy of Israel in India. A recording of the tournament is available here.
This show of camaraderie comes after the establishment of diplomatic relations between Israel and Bhutan in December of 2020. Participating in this historic diplomatic event is a huge step towards relations between the Jewish people and the people of Bhutan. Chess4Solidarity broke down walls between the two countries and brought them together through good, old-fashioned sportsmanship.
The event featured remarks from Avi Issacharoff, the producer of Fauda, famed Israeli actor Aki Avni, and others. By connecting through chess, the participants set an example of solidarity and acceptance for their differing cultures.
Olympic medalist Ariel "Arik" Ze'evi
Click here to watch his greeting
Avi Issacharoff, creator of Fauda
Click here to watch his greeting
This is not the first time the game of chess has played a significant role on the international stage. In December of 2018, The Lawfare Project provided legal support in defense of seven Israeli chess players who were barred from participating in World Blitz & Rapid Championships in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. When compared to that bigoted discrimination against Israeli chess players, last week's event showcases how far we have come towards positive relations. We are working towards a world where chess players are welcome at any international competition regardless of their ethnic, religious, or national identity.
Without your support, we would not have been able to sponsor this historic event. I thank you for your dedication to supporting the civil rights of Jews everywhere, and we look forward to more events promoting diplomacy, unity, and international cooperation in the future.
Sincerely,
Brooke Goldstein
Executive Director, The Lawfare Project