Black Goes First is about chess. But off the board, it stands for more. It’s about examining why systems are the way they are, and how they got that way. It’s about understanding that they’re not set in stone—we have the power to change them, if we can soften our minds and hearts to new ideas. We have the power to make things more fair and equitable. To foster inclusion and representation. To show new generations that their education, development, and success matter. Just like the rules of chess have changed over centuries, it is our job to update our own rules and regulations to reflect the values we care about. Because it’s not just a rule on the board. It’s a reflection of how we play the game.

We made a custom board with our rule change engraved front and center. But in reality, our board is just like any other. The game stays the same—it’s just a change of perspective. We hope you play ‘Black Goes First’ on any board you play on. And we hope you spread the message of this idea, and help us change the game of chess forever.