Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the life and legacy of a trailblazing Olympic fencer, Peter J. Westbrook, who unfortunately passed away this weekend. To keep her son off the tumultuous streets of 1967 Newark, Peter Westbrook's mother, Mariko, enrolled him in fencing class, where his natural talents were fully realized. In 1984, he became the first Black American to win an Olympic bronze medal in fencing. Throughout his career, he won countless competitions and is recognized by many athletic halls of fame. One of his greatest achievements, Mr. Speaker, was the opening of the Peter Westbrook Foundation, which allowed him to introduce Black and Latino youth to the fencing world, including my own family, which was touched by him. The foundation provides fencing lessons, academic assistance, and opportunities for marginalized youth. The foundation has produced seven Olympians. Just this year, Lauren Scruggs, a foundation alum, made history by becoming the first Black woman to win a gold medal in the Olympics in fencing. Peter Westbrook left an incredible legacy in the fencing world. He was an icon and trailblazer and changed the lives of countless youth. He will always be remembered in my household, New York City, and the country. ____________________”