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'I Will NOT Wear A Hijab And Support Women's Oppression': US Chess Champion Boycotts World Championship In Iran

October 5, 2016

The reigning US Women's Chess Champion has said she would rather sacrifice her career than submit to demands to wear a hijab at the next world championship.

"I will NOT wear a hijab and support women's oppression. Even if it means missing one of the most important competitions of my career," Nazi Paikidze said in an interview with My Stealthy Freedom.

Instagram / Nazi Paikidze-Barnes

Susan Polgar, who chairs the women's committee of the international chess governing body, has tried to silence Paikidze by telling her to keep her opinions off social media and to take it up with FIDE and WOM.

But Paikidze is sticking to her guns. In an Instagram post, Paikdze made her decision very clear.

"This is a post for those who don't understand why I am boycotting FIDE's decision.

I think it's unacceptable to host a WOMEN'S World Championship in a place where women do not have basic fundamental rights and are treated as second-class citizens.

For those saying that I don't know anything about Iran: I have received the most support and gratitude from the people of Iran, who are facing this situation every day."

Do you agree with Nazi Paikidze's decision to boycott the world championship?