The Bedford-Stuyvesant YMCA swimming pool was packed with youngsters who were giddy with laughter, as they enjoyed cooling down during the sweltering summer days, thanks to Senator Kevin Parker, and the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc- Eta Nu Sigma Chapter Brooklyn Alumnae who made this annual event a success.
The lawmaker joined the youngsters recently to kick-off Swim 1922, an annual initiative in collaboration with the Sorority, with an aim to increase swimming participation and reduce drowning rates.
The politician told Caribbean Life, that the foundation focuses on teaching water safety and swimming skills, especially in underserved communities.
Senator Parker has been an avid supporter of Swim 1922 since its inception in 2009. He expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “I am honored to support Swim 1922 and partner with Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.- Eta Nu Sigma Chapter Brooklyn Alumnae.”
“This initiative not only promotes water safety and swimming skills but also strengthens our community by emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion in all aspects of life,” he added.
“I am proud to be a part of such a meaningful and impactful event. Given the recent increase in this year’s event featured a variety of activities including the FDNY-led CPR courses, informative sessions on aquatic career paths, and exciting giveaways,” said the politician who is committed to restoring the overall quality of life for the constituents of the 21st Senatorial District in Brooklyn, that encompasses, sections of Flatbush, East Flatbush, Kensington, Ditmas Park, Midwood, Flatlands, Canarsie, Georgetown, Old Mill Basin, Mill Basin, Marine Park, and Bergen Beach.
Olympians and sorority members were present to provide swimming lessons and share their expertise thus highlighting the program’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
According to Swim 1922 in partnership with USA Swimming, its mission is to strengthen USA Swimming’s commitment to diversity and inclusion by breaking down barriers, created by a lack of access and exposure, and expanding its footprint in the local community to increase swim participation and decrease drowning rates.
The program provides opportunities for youth and adults within the African American community to learn water safety in general and swimming specifically. The program also reduces the level of fear and apprehension of learning to swim and opens minds and changes attitudes regarding Blacks and swimming.
