Charles Rangel: “in viewing the tremendous achievements of tennis players Venus and Serena Williams, once again on display for the…”

“in viewing the tremendous achievements of tennis players Venus and Serena Williams, once again on display for the pleasure of their many fans at the U.S. Open in my hometown, New York, one must acknowledge the legacy of past trailblazers, the parental roles of Richard and Oracene Williams and the natural ability of tennis's most recent stars. Tennis pioneers Althea Gibson and Arthur Ashe successfully gained national and international status despite legal and customary exclusion of African-Americans from tennis during most of the 20th century. In 1951 Althea Gibson was the first African-American of either gender to play in U.S. Open and also in 1951 she became the first black American to play at Wimbledon. In 1957 Gibson made history by winning the Wimbledon singles and doubles championships. Breaking ground in the game of tennis, she also became the first Black female to be on the cover of Sports Illustrated. Despite the confines of race, gender, and class, she transcended the role of black female athletics and became a spokesperson for racial equality and inclusion by challenging racial segregation in American society. By challenging and ultimately transforming the racial and social climate in sports, Gibson created a legacy and opened opportunity for future black tennis players.”