The impact of "Figure Skating in Harlem" (FSH) extends well beyond pirouettes and triple axels. This Harlem-based program has become a beacon of transformation for young women of color, offering an ensemble of figure skating lessons, educational support, and leadership development. As ABC7 New York reported, since its beginning in 1997 with a handful of girls and some used skates, FSH has grown to over 170 active participants, with an alumni network exceeding 1,500.
FSH sets itself apart from typical after-school programs by requiring participants to maintain a minimum "B" average in school and finish their homework before hitting the ice. Founder and CEO Sharon Cohen told ABC7 New York, "We have tutors, teachers, social workers, counselors, coaches." However, this exceptional program is facing a challenge due to the lack of a permanent ice rink. The situation is made worse by the high demand for ice time in Manhattan and the looming loss of their temporary slot at Riverbank State Park at the end of March.
Meanwhile, the program's exposure has escalated with "Harlem Ice," a five-part docuseries on Disney+ that showcases the tenacity and artistry of its skaters, as well as their journey through the program. Speaking to Beyond Sport, Cohen shared her enthusiasm about the show’s potential to inspire: "Our students and team members are true role models with their grit, grace and resilience. We hope they will greatly inspire girls around the world to follow their dreams and make their dreams happen by moving past fear and stereotypes and into opportunities and possibilities to define themselves."
FSH’s mission addresses prevalent social justice issues within the Harlem community. Sharon Cohen elucidated in a Beyond Sport interview the importance of their activism, saying, "Our students live in the real world and at FSH they are changemakers." The students are not only learning to excel in a sport that's predominantly white; they're also being equipped to address and fight against systemic challenges they face daily. In recognition of Black History Month, FSH has engaged with the community through initiating events and enriching their curriculum with black history content.
Delgado, an avid skater with FSH, eloquently summed up the sentiment of many participants: "I've seen so many different skaters come through and we've all become so close no matter what year they joined," as noted by the ABC7 New York.
