Recognizing the significant global impact and legacy of Peter Westbrook in the sport of fencing in the United States and the work that he has done to improve the lives of underserved and vulnerable youth.
H. Res. 758 is a non-binding House of Representatives resolution recognizing Peter Westbrook for his global impact on fencing in the United States and for his work improving the lives of underserved and vulnerable youth through the Peter Westbrook Foundation. Introduced by Rep. Espaillat and referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, the resolution highlights Westbrook’s life story, athletic achievements (including an Olympic bronze medal in 1984 and multiple national titles), and his role in promoting fencing and life skills among youth. It also details the Foundation’s work, metrics of success, and its impact on diversification and opportunity in a sport that has been predominantly White. The bill expresses appreciation and acknowledges the Foundation’s contributions to youth development and the sport. This is a symbolic, ceremonial measure rather than one that changes law or creates new programs. It serves to recognize Westbrook’s legacy and encourage continued support for youth fencing and related educational opportunities.
Key Points
- 1Recognizes Peter Westbrook as a trailblazer in fencing, highlighting his status as the first African American to win an Olympic fencing medal (1984) and his broader athletic achievements, including six Olympic appearances and multiple national championships.
- 2Documents Westbrook’s life story, including his Newark upbringing, early fencing to avoid street violence, and his scholarship to New York University, illustrating a narrative of resilience and success.
- 3Highlights the Peter Westbrook Foundation (established 1991) as an organization that offers free fencing instruction and academic/life-skills programming to 8- to 18-year-olds from underserved New York City communities, with a focus on both athletic development and education.
- 4Emphasizes the Foundation’s impact: producing numerous Olympic athletes (17 total over time, with ongoing representation since 2000) and contributing to Black excellence in fencing; notes that a large portion of the national team has historical ties to the Foundation.
- 5Provides compelling impact metrics for Foundation participants (85% Black/Latino; 49% girls; 77% of families below area median income; over 4,000 youths served; high school graduation rate 100%; college attendance 95%; SAT score gains 100%; GPA improvements 80%), and describes alumni involvement in mentoring and community leadership.