Chess Olympiad 2022: FIDE officials inaugurate Queen's and Social Pavilion to spread message of togetherness

Deputy President Bachar Kouatly, Managing Director Dana Reizniece-Ozola, and President Arkady Dvorkovich opened the Social and Queens Pavillions. PHOTO: Lennart Ootes — Deputy President Bachar Kouatly, Managing Director Dana Reizniece-Ozola, and President Arkady Dvorkovich opened the Social and Queens' Pavillions. PHOTO: Lennart Ootes

Mahabalipuram, July 30: As part of their social initiatives, the FIDE opened its Queen's and Social Pavilion at the 44th Chess Olympiad here on day one of the global competition. FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich and Managing Director Dana Reizniece Ozola declared the pavilions open with the aim of spreading the message of unity in diversity.

Sonja Johnson, Chairperson of the Planning and Development Commission, welcomed Dana to the stage and Dana addressed the audience. "188 Men's teams, and 162 Women's teams are participating, it seems like the whole world is participating! Such diversity, such enthusiasm! We make the world round by putting together these little elements and this is something that very much connects with our social initiatives," said Dana, further adding, "Chess is not only about professional sports: it's about using our great game for the benefit of society, embracing its diversity."

Dana also explained how these two Queen's and Social pavilions will be telling the stories of the projects that FIDE has launched. There will be special days dedicated to Women in Chess, Chess in Prisons, Chess for Refugees, Chess for aging people, and more! These pavilions will celebrate the beauty, the minds, and the achievements of the women chess players. Strong women, getting stronger! She also thanked the men present in the audience for being there and supporting the year of the women in Chess.

Sonja Jhonson welcomed the attendants. PHOTO: Lennart Ootes

President Dvorkovich thanked the All India Chess Federation, the host association of the 44th Chess Olympiad, for pulling off the biggest festival of chess in such a short time. He also extended his gratitude to every chess federation that has been involved in FIDE's social initiatives.

Arkady said, "I would like to thank the people who devoted their hearts and time and their lives (partially at least!) to chess!" He further added, "Human capital is not just a word; it's a real thing! You have to put your hearts to make these projects a success story."

The event was closed with a Bharatanatyam dance piece by two professional dancers.