Landsman, Brown, Kaptur, Dingell Introduce Resolution to Honor Cincinnati African American OIympic Athlete Who Made History

Cincinnati, OH - Today, Congressman Greg Landsman (D-OH-01) Congresswoman Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) introduced a resolution to honor Cincinnati native, William DeHart Hubbard, the first African American to win an individual gold medal in Olympic history.

During Black History Month and the conclusion of the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, Reps. Landsman, Brown, Kaptur, and Dingell introduced a resolution honoring William DeHart Hubbard, a graduate of Walnut Hills High School.

Despite facing racial segregation and discrimination at the 1924 Paris Olympics, DeHart Hubbard made history in the long jump, becoming the first African American to win an individual Olympic gold medal.

DeHart Hubbard came back to Cincinnati after his Olympic achievements and dedicated much of his time to advancing African Americans in sports and ensuring every person has an opportunity to achieve their dreams.

Congressman Greg Landsman:

"William DeHart Hubbard made world history more than 100 years ago, and his legacy still matters today. We honor him not just for what he achieved in sports but the impact he had after to create equal opportunities for all."

DeHart Hubbard Family Statement:

"It is such an honour and a privilege to be part of DeHart Hubbard's legacy. We are eternally grateful for all that he has gifted us with, and continues to bestow even after his physical form has passed away. We, as his descendants, have wanted to find ways to let the world know about his greatness, both on and off the track. He was and continues to be a shining example and role model for excellence, confidence, graciousness, generosity, and courage. Your recognition of his achievements is greatly appreciated, and we humbly thank you for honouring him in this way."

Read the resolution here.

###