The policing of swimming pools, has a long, painful, and often violent history. Long before the Civil Rights Movement, white citizens took it upon themselves to police swimming pools, often using violence against Black swimmers to ensure that these spaces remain segregated. The historical arch of policing swimming has lead to a culture of defacto segregation, where white people still police these spaces, often creating a hostile and unwelcoming environment for Black swimmers. Interview Sources:

Prof Jeff Wiltse, author of the book Contested Waters: A Social History of Swimming Pools in America

Prof Victoria Wolcott, author of Race, Riots, and Roller Coasters: The Struggle over Segregated Recreation in America