Recently, Chess.com decided not to allow Russian players to use their national flag on the platform. This decision was made in the context of the Russian government waging war, but is this fair to innocent people?

Political instability not only affects government decisions but also deeply impacts the lives of ordinary people. Chess players on Chess.com are not the ones causing the war; they are simply enthusiasts of this intellectual sport. Denying them the right to use their national flag is an act of discrimination, hurting their national pride and diminishing the spirit of unity and sportsmanship.

We must remember that in any conflict, it is the people who suffer the most. They do not have the power to decide government policies, yet they bear the consequences. Discriminating against them just because their country is at war is an unfair and inhumane act.

Let us raise our voices to protect the rights of innocent chess players. Let them freely express their national pride, no matter how unstable the political situation may be. We need to create a fair and non-discriminatory sports environment where everyone is respected and treated equally.
Author: Le Uyen Chau (Canva designer, team_coordinator)

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