1968 Olympics: A Black Power Salute

Gold and Bronze Medalists Raise Fists in Protest

A Symbol of the Civil Rights Movement

In a powerful moment of defiance, American runners Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their black-gloved fists on the podium at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City. Their raised fists became an iconic symbol of the Black Power movement and the fight for civil rights.

Smith, who won the gold medal in the 200-meter dash, and Carlos, who won the bronze, wore black gloves and raised their fists during the playing of the American national anthem. Their gesture was a protest against racial injustice and police brutality in the United States.

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) condemned Smith and Carlos' protest, and they were suspended from the Games. However, their actions sparked a worldwide conversation about racial inequality and the struggle for civil rights.

The 1968 Olympic protests are still remembered today as a powerful example of athletes using their platform to speak out against injustice.