Title: The Urgent Need for Accessible Public Pools in Communities

Cullen Jones, a two-time Olympian and four-time Olympic medalist, reflects on the critical importance of accessible public pools for community health and safety. After a near-drowning incident in his childhood, Jones emphasizes that swimming lessons are essential not only for preventing similar tragedies but also for providing relief during increasingly hot summer months. However, many communities still lack affordable public pools, which are vital resources for their residents. Jones highlights the deep-rooted stigmas surrounding swimming in Black communities, where phrases like “You know Black people don’t swim!” perpetuate harmful narratives. He cites Heather McGhee’s book, “The Sum of Us,” which discusses how systemic racism has historically led to the disinvestment of public pools, resulting in fewer opportunities for Black individuals to learn how to swim. This legacy of discrimination continues to affect swimming proficiency rates today. Recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveal a stark disparity: 36.8% of Black adults report not knowing how to swim, compared to just 15% of all adults. Economic factors also play a significant role, with a 2017 study indicating that 79% of children from families earning under $50,000 have little to no swimming experience. These disparities are not coincidental but rather a result of systemic inequities. Jones calls for increased access to public pools and safety programs, arguing that such resources are essential for community well-being. As summer temperatures rise, ensuring safe swimming environments should be a priority for all communities, promoting both public health and joy.