Closing the Gap: Addressing the Swim Disparity for Black Women Over 55

When I first began my journey to conquer my fear of water, I quickly realized I wasn’t alone. For generations, the legacy of systemic barriers, cultural stigmas, and limited access to resources has left countless Black women without the opportunity—or confidence—to learn to swim. This reality isn’t just about missed moments of joy by the water; it’s about safety, empowerment, and rewriting the narrative for ourselves and future generations.

The Swim Disparity: A Lifelong Challenge

Studies consistently show that Black Americans are significantly more likely to drown than their white counterparts, with Black children drowning at a rate nearly three times higher. These statistics reflect a troubling reality: a history of segregation that excluded Black families from public swimming pools, coupled with generational fear passed down in households that lacked access to swimming opportunities.

For Black women over 55, this disparity becomes even more pronounced. Many of us grew up in communities where swimming wasn’t seen as a priority, or worse, where fear of water was a survival mechanism passed down as protection. Learning to swim as an adult, especially later in life, comes with unique challenges: overcoming deeply rooted fears, battling negative self-talk, and finding safe, inclusive spaces to learn.

Why This Retreat Matters

The Back2theWater Retreat was born from my personal experience and the recognition that this disparity is a call to action. It’s not just about teaching swimming; it’s about breaking cycles of fear and providing a space for Black women to reclaim their relationship with water.

For me, this retreat is deeply personal. As someone who lived with aquaphobia for most of my life, I understand the emotional weight that fear of water carries. I also know the overwhelming joy that comes from confronting that fear and finding freedom in the water. This retreat is my way of sharing that joy, creating a community of women who can support each other in their journeys, and addressing a long-overlooked issue with care and intentionality.

Creating a Safe Space for Growth

This retreat is not just about lessons in swimming—it’s about lessons in courage, resilience, and sisterhood. Our participants will have the chance to work with patient, experienced instructors who understand the unique challenges of aquaphobia. Beyond that, we’ll build a supportive community where vulnerability is celebrated, and every small victory is cheered.

The experience is also designed to be luxurious and uplifting, blending intensive swimming lessons with unforgettable cultural excursions. From a group Flying Dress photo session in Cartagena’s vibrant streets to a celebratory yacht day in open water, this retreat is about more than learning to swim—it’s about learning to trust ourselves again.

Retreat Details

📅 Dates: August 17–27, 2025

📍 Location: Cartagena, Colombia

This 10-day retreat includes:

• Four days of intensive swim lessons in a safe and private environment

• A luxury open-water yacht experience to celebrate newfound confidence

• Immersive cultural excursions, including a Flying Dress photo session, a day trip to Palenque, and a visit to Barranquilla (optional)

• Accommodations and a supportive community of women ready to embrace their courage

A Call to Action: Join Us or Support the Movement

If you are a Black woman over 55 who has lived with aquaphobia or never had the chance to learn to swim, this retreat is for you. It’s time to reclaim your relationship with water and experience the joy of freedom and confidence. Registration is now open, and spaces are limited. Don’t miss this life-changing opportunity.

For those who wish to support this movement, I invite you to partner with us as a sponsor. By contributing to the Back2theWater Retreat, you’re not only addressing the swim disparity but also empowering Black women to embrace growth, healing, and transformation. Your sponsorship will directly support participants and ensure the success of this retreat.

To register or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please reach out via email or visit our website.

Together, we can close the swim disparity and create a ripple effect of empowerment and change. Let’s make the water a place of freedom, not fear.

Peace and blessings,

Diamond Crystal

The Gallivanting Grandma™️

---

About Diamond Crystal

Global Nomad | 5-Star International Housesitter | Intentional Connector

As a travel ambassador for Black women 55+ embracing new life journeys with grace and ease, Diamond inspires transformation through exploration. A dedicated journey strategist, she empowers women to expand the realms of possibility and step boldly into their next chapter.

Subscribe & follow her journey on YouTube @ https://youtube.com/@thegallivantinggrandma