The word that is never spoken of in swimming: Talkin' 'bout “Whiteness.” Part One of Two

Crossing The Lane Lines

Naji Ali

June 18, 202139 min
Swimming

The word that is never spoken of in swimming: Talkin' 'bout “Whiteness.” Part One of Two

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Episode Notes

Simone Manuel, is regarded as one of the best freestylers in the World. However, far too often she is referred to as the best Black swimmer in the World. Her Blackness is constantly put front and center, while at the same time you never hear someone define Katie Ledecky by her Whiteness. Why is that? In part one of a two-part series, we'll speak to former collegiate volleyballer, volleyball coach, and social justice educator, Jen Fry, about the reason why swimmers like Simone are defined by their race, why White athletes aren't, and what can be done about it.