In response to allegations of racism against 65 African-American and Hispanic summer campers at a private swim club outside of Philadelphia, U.S. swimmer Cullen Jones, who will compete in the 50-meter freestyle final Thursday night, and USA Swimming Executive Director Chuck Wielgus spoke out Thursday afternoon.
“The acts of blatant racism shown towards the young kids with Creative Steps Day Camp in Philadelphia have no place in America and should not be tolerated by anyone. As a member of the USA Swimming’s National Team and an African-American in the sport of swimming, hearing about what’s happened to these 65 kids is both disturbing and appalling. I work hard everyday through my efforts with USA Swimming Foundation and Make A Splash to increase the exposure for as well as enhance the number of African-American and Hispanic young people entering the sport of swimming, not just because it’s a great sport, but because learning to swim and understanding the importance of being safe in and around the water are life-saving skills that no one should be denied.”
- Cullen Jones, 2008 Olympian
“The alleged statements made by The Valley Club in Huntingdon Valley (PA) and its president, John Duesler, are disheartening especially as we are working hard to try to increase diversity in pools across America. We do hope this unfortunate incident, or others like it, will not prevent or dissuade young people of color or other minority children from learning to swim. All kids, regardless of ethnicity or economic backgrounds deserve the opportunity to learn to swim and enjoy the sport.”
- Chuck Wielgus
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