On February 27, 1973, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered a unanimous decision that strengthened civil rights protections in community facilities. The case focused on the Wheaton-Haven Recreation Association, a nonprofit swimming pool in Wheaton, Maryland, a predominantly white suburb of Washington, D.C.

The U.S. Black population reached 48.3 million in 2023, a 33% increase since 2000, reflecting demographic, geographic, and social changes. This growing and diverse group offers valuable insights, particularly during Black History Month.

This week, we celebrate the life and legacy of Arthur Ashe, born on February 6, 1943. Ashe was not only a tennis legend but a trailblazer whose influence extended far beyond the court. As the first Black man to win Wimbledon, the U.S. Open, and the Australian Open, he shattered racial barriers in sports and opened doors for countless athletes of color who followed in his footsteps.