Opinion: A lifesaving right, not a privelege

As the president of the board of directors for Haw River Assembly, I have worked with our organization’s staff to promote water quality protection and access to our rivers and lakes for all people in our watershed.

The Haw River is not officially designated for swimming, though many cool off at the river bank at several sites in Alamance and Chatham counties. Jordan Lake has official swim beaches accessible to anyone who pays the small fee to park, but for the upper reaches of the watershed, there is no access. Lakes open to paddling and motorized boats are closed to swimmers. Lake Brandt, Lake Townsend, Lake Mackintosh, Lake Reidsville, Lake Michael, Quaker Creek Reservoir, Stoney Creek Reservoir, and University Lake all strictly ban swimming.

Last summer, nine people drowned in Jordan Lake. According to a 2018 study on access to swimming, 64% of Black children, 45% of Hispanic children and 40% of white children have little to no swimming ability.

Public pools provide a safe place for kids to learn to swim, which is a lifesaving skill, increasingly taught to only those who can afford private lessons in private pools. The transition to private pools coincides with the movement to desegregate public spaces. As people of color were allowed access to public pools, those pools shut down or were not properly maintained. Pool memberships became exclusive. People of color also faced violence. The lack of access denied people of color the ability to learn to swim, and get comfortable in, on and around water. Communities of color were denied the therapeutic power and exhilarating joy the first swim of the summer can bring.

Our organization works every day to protect water quality in the Haw River watershed for the people and the ecosystems that depend on our river. That mission includes working to break down barriers of exclusion and systematic racism that has disproportionately left out communities of color from outdoor recreation spaces.

That’s why I am thrilled to extend this heartfelt invitation to all of you to join us for our upcoming water confidence workshop. This event aims to foster a sense of comfort and confidence in navigating natural bodies of water, as well as some useful knowledge and tips.

Our experienced instructor will provide a supportive environment where you can learn essential water safety skills, techniques for overcoming fear or anxiety and, most importantly, cultivate a deeper connection with the water around us.

We believe that every member of our community deserves the chance to experience the serenity and joy that comes with being in and around water.

Join us as we dive into this enriching experience and embrace the beauty of the Haw River watershed. Your presence will make this journey all the more meaningful.

Space is limited, so please register soon to secure your spot. We hope to see you on the water.

For any questions, please email your Haw Riverkeeper at emily@hawriver.org

To sign up for our Water Confidence Workshop, please email Hannah Welborn-Lewis at events@hawriver.org

Ayo Wilson, president

Haw River Assembly Board of Directors