It was reported back in June that the International Swimming Federation (FINA) banned the use of swim caps made by a Black-owned company designed for natural Black hair in international competitions. Now, after receiving a ton of backlash, FINA is walking back its decision and reconsidering the ban.
“FINA is currently reviewing the situation with regards to ‘Soul Cap’ and similar products, understanding the importance of inclusivity and representation,” FINA said in a press release.
Soul Cap, a British swim brand, is designed for diverse hairstyles like braids, afros, and locs. FINA initially ruled the cap does not fit “the natural form of the head” and therefore would not be allowed in competitions, including the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. According to Teen Vogue, the company did state there are no rules against wearing Soul Cap for training and recreational purposes.
The ban has sparked conversations about the lack of diversity surrounding the sport. The Guardian reports that while other brands of swim caps exist for natural hair, they can be challenging to find. And the original swim cap was created with Caucasian hair in mind. This creates an atmosphere of exclusion for members of the Black and minority ethnic community.
“The issue with this story is I don’t want little Black girls and little Black boys to look at elite swimming and think it is not open to them because that is completely the wrong idea. It is open to them. I’m really hopeful that with it being under review that some agreement will come about,” Alice Dearing told Sky Sports News. Dearing, who previously partnered with Soul Cap, is the first Black female swimmer to represent Great Britain at the Olympics.
While the ban hasn’t been reversed yet, FINA even reconsidering the decision is a positive step for diversity in the sport. And the conversation regarding making competitive swimming available for all is equally as important.
