The Black Power Salute: When Sports Became Political
An athlete showing a raised fist on the podium stirred the world and how we now understand athletes. When the medals were given to Tommie Smith and John Carlos, each put up one fist with a black glove, lifted their heads, and kept them raised as the anthem started. People showed great pride in their nation and peacefully battled against racial discrimination at the same time. The audience was speechless. News about the picture was tracked across the globe. It was something more than just a statement; it went beyond that and spoke for itself.
The Athletes Behind the Moment
Tommie Smith set the record for the fastest race, and John Carlos finished third. Both were young and gifted athletes with a keen awareness of the ongoing racial discrimination in the United States. The choice they came to was premeditated and tactical, not impulsive. They went barefoot, wearing only black socks, representing poverty. The class struggle was present in Smith’s scarf and Carlos’s open-zipped jacket.
Both athletes put on a single black glove, which added to the raised fist pose that captures one of the most famous images in Olympic history. It was a move that would inspire generations, like a high-stakes moment in a match—or a risky play at a live casino online real money table—where one decision changes everything.
Australian Peter Norman, the silver medalist, stood next to Smith wearing the badge of support that sponsored him. It stated, “Support Human Rights for Australian Aborigines.” Norman’s silent defiance, although frequently overlooked, still adds to the power of the gesture.
The Backlash Was Immediate
Their nonviolent action went unrecognized, receiving no credit whatsoever. The IOC cited it as improper for the sporting world. Both athletes were expelled from the Games. They were met with backlash and threats, which crumbled their success upon return. Thankfully, over time, the rationale grew. Controversial things are now recognized as bold actions that transformed how athletes are regarded.
Why It Still Matters Today
The Black Power salute was not simply an act of defiance; it served as a reminder that athletes are human beings. They have experiences, identities, and belief systems that do not vanish while in a field or a track. It also indicated a significant change. It demonstrated that the world of sports is not separate from life. They are, in fact, the opposite; at times, they provide people with the most critical platform from which to voice their opinions.
A Look at Sports and Social Statements Since 1968
| Athlete(s) | Protest or Message | Year |
| Muhammad Ali | Refused military draft (Vietnam War) | 1967 |
| Colin Kaepernick | Kneeled during the national anthem | 2016 |
| NBA players | Wore “I Can’t Breathe” shirts | 2014 |
| WNBA teams | Walked off the court for racial justice | 2020 |
| Naomi Osaka | Wore masks with victims’ names (US Open) | 2020 |
Smith and Carlos helped open the door for these kinds of actions, and they did it before it was safe or popular.
Why Athletes Speak Out
In a time when everyone’s online, athletes often have bigger platforms than politicians. They reach millions through games, interviews, and social media. That influence comes with pressure, but also opportunity.
Many athletes choose to speak up not because they want attention but because they feel responsible. They see inequality, feel the impact of social issues, and want to use their visibility to make change.
Misunderstood at the Time
Back in 1968, not everyone understood what the raised fists meant. Some called it disrespectful, and others saw it as un-American. But the symbolism wasn’t anti-American—it was a call for America to live up to its own values.
Smith and Carlos didn’t protest the anthem. They protested the gap between the anthem’s words and the reality many citizens faced. That distinction often gets lost, especially when people defend tradition quickly.
What This Moment Taught Us
The Black Power salute showed that protest doesn’t need to be loud to be strong. It can be silent and still change everything. Here’s what that moment taught — and still teaches — us:
- Symbolism matters — even a simple gesture can speak volumes
- Sports reflect society — they’re not isolated from real-world struggles
- Speaking out is risky — but often worth it
- The actual impact may take time to be appreciated
- Courage isn’t just physical — it’s standing up when you know there will be consequences
Recognition, Finally
Decades later, both Smith and Carlos have been recognized for their bravery. Statues have been built, awards have been given, and schools have been named in their honor. What was once considered rebellion is now part of history books and documentaries.
Peter Norman, too, eventually received honors in Australia, though posthumously, for his quiet support that day.
Final Word: The Power of a Platform
No athlete is required to make comments, and that is understandable. With that in mind, it is great for some athletes to speak out like Carlos and Smith. They put into perspective that sports serve as more than just entertainment; they work as a stage, a microphone for athletes to speak, and even a reflective surface to look back.
Sports is a never-ending cycle of drills, but every so often have the opportunity to transcend their typical purpose and take on a greater meaning, serving as a powerful global force for change.
There are specific memories one cannot get rid of, such as the iconic images of athletes raising fists in unity and triumph. Along with the first image, another memorable iconic pose the world sees is the image of ‘two men looking at a globe’.
