DETROIT – A group of teens and young adults are diving into a new experience—learning to swim for the first time. This isn’t just any swim class; it’s a beacon of hope for the deaf and hard of hearing community in Detroit.
The class, led by instructor Terra Jones, is unique not only for its focus on swimming skills but also for its inclusivity. A sign interpreter is present at every session, ensuring that communication barriers are broken down and every participant can fully engage.
Khadija Hicks, CEO and founder of the Association for the Advancement of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (AADHH), shares the motivation behind this initiative.
“We went to a water park before, and a deaf child almost drowned. Her parent tried to save her but couldn’t swim,” Hicks recalls.
This incident highlighted the urgent need for accessible swim classes and other opportunities for AADHH.
Hicks and her co-founders have children who are deaf or hard of hearing. They recognized a significant gap in resources for the deaf and hard of hearing in Detroit.
“Swim classes didn’t have interpreters. We had issues with the bus systems not having interpreters. Different programs not providing equal access,” Hicks explains.
Thanks to a generous grant from the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit and its sponsors, Huron-Clinton Metroparks and the Farner Family Foundation, access to swim classes is now a reality for many.
For Amiracle Roberts, a participant, this is her first swim class.
“I was a little nervous at first. I didn’t know how to do a lot of stuff. I wasn’t good, but I just tried my best,” she shared.
Instructor Terra Jones emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in swimming.
“Everybody deserves a shot at learning how to swim, regardless of their disability,” Jones said.
Over six weeks, Jones teaches a variety of skills, including floating, freestyle, backstroke, and treading water.
For Charisma Gafford, another participant, the class is about more than just swimming.
“A lot of them don’t know how to swim. So, with this program, they can learn and become skilled swimmers and don’t feel defeated that they can’t,” Gafford said.
While the program is a significant step forward, Hicks acknowledges the ongoing challenge of securing funding to ensure continued access to these life-saving resources.
“I hope the classes continue because they really enjoyed it,” Hicks added.
This initiative not only teaches essential swimming skills but also fosters a sense of community and empowerment among its participants, proving that with the right support, everyone can make a splash.
For more information about swimming and other programs with the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit, click here. Information about swim lessons can also be found here.
You can learn more about the Association for the Advancement of Deaf/Hard of Hearing here.