This legacy still has an impact today. According to USA Swimming, 70% of Black children don't know how to swim, and Black children drown at a rate almost three times higher than their white counterparts. So it's not a surprise that people all over social media rejoiced when they witnessed Manuel make history in Rio de Janeiro.
Somewhere in America, a little Black girl just watched history being made, and a barrier being broken, and was inspired. #SimoneManuel
— ADH III (@cscprince) August 12, 2016
this is for all the blacks kids who got kicked out of pools and for all the pools drained b/c black kids touched the water
— profloumoore (@loumoore12) August 12, 2016
Simone Manuel.
I am watching the glorious mermaid Simone Manuel make history. Well done, incredible mermaid.
— Lin-Manuel Miranda (@Lin_Manuel) August 12, 2016
AHHH!!! My roomie @simone_manuel just won a gold medal! I'm shaking. So proud of you. #CHAMP
— Katie Ledecky (@katieledecky) August 12, 2016
Simone Manuel you're a pioneer. Pat yourself on the back and continue to strive for greatness. Beautiful tears of joy and passion.
— 10 (@SimplyAJ10) August 12, 2016