Dive into Safety: The Rapid Rise of a Life-Saving Swim Lesson Enterprise

Meet the incredible force behind Black People Will Swim, a game-changer hailing from Queens, N.Y. Eager to bridge the gap in swimming opportunities, this former journalist and social media strategist, who proudly identifies as Haitian-American, embarked on a mission to make swimming lessons more accessible to all. In 2019, the seeds of Black People Will Swim were sown, sprouting from a simple yet powerful desire to teach 30 Black individuals how to swim.

As a former collegiate swimmer, the founder of Black People Will Swim witnessed an overwhelming response to her initial tweet, fueling her passion to democratize swimming education. What began as a personal goal quickly escalated into a movement, with hundreds clamoring for the chance to learn. In the face of closed public pools during the pandemic, Lamonier pivoted, offering swim lessons in the familiar and intimate setting of backyard pools, ensuring that the joy and safety of swimming were not lost during challenging times.

At the heart of Black People Will Swim lies a commitment to inclusivity. While the organization focuses on empowering Black children through swimming lessons, its doors are open to all who seek to dive into the world of aquatic skills. This inclusivity underscores the larger issue at hand: the staggering lack of access to swim education for Black communities. A myriad of factors, from historical segregation in swimming pools to the scarcity of affordable lessons, have contributed to this disparity.

The transformative impact of Black People Will Swim extends far beyond the confines of individual lessons. With a vision to revolutionize the landscape of swimming instruction, Lamonier aims to propel her local initiative onto the national stage. With endorsements from industry experts like Lisa Carmen Wang, the potential for widespread influence and lifesaving impact is undeniable. By offering a structured program that guides participants from trepidation to confidence, Black People Will Swim not only imparts crucial skills but also dismantles deep-seated taboos surrounding swimming in Black communities.

In a bid to address the nationwide lifeguard shortage and foster greater diversity in the field, Black People Will Swim is pioneering an innovative instructor pipeline program. By assuming the financial burden of lifeguard certification, traditionally shouldered by individuals, the organization breaks down barriers and paves the way for aspiring instructors, particularly from Black and Brown backgrounds. Moreover, the creation of an instructor directory further streamlines the process, connecting qualified instructors with facilities in need of their expertise.

In essence, Black People Will Swim embodies a beacon of hope and change, navigating uncharted waters to redefine the narrative of swimming education. With a blend of passion, purpose, and unwavering dedication, this grassroots movement has the power to not only save lives but also inspire a generation to embrace the freedom and joy that swimming brings.