INDIANAPOLIS — There's a push underway in Indianapolis to improve water safety.
The effort is in conjunction with the 2024 U.S. Swimming Olympic Team Trials, happening this summer at Lucas Oil Stadium.
On Thursday, April 18, people gathered for a conversation about swimming access and safety precautions, especially when it comes to communities of color. The discussion included experts providing historical context and a closer look at current challenges.
"If we don't have a grasp on history, especially the troubling parts, we're doomed to repeat those, so this is as good a time as ever, with all the excitement around the U.S. Swimming Trials, that we really pay attention to how we can engage the rest of the community and bring them up to speed," said Ebony Chappel, with Friends of Belmont Beach.
There's also an initiative to teach 50,000 Hoosiers to be water-safe by the end of the year and a learn-to-swim program for IPS middle schoolers.
The Olympic Team Trials are set for June 15-23 at Lucas Oil Stadium.