The story behind this iconic Olympic protest NOTES

Overview of the 1968 US Olympic Track and Field Team

• The 1968 US Olympic team is renowned for its excellence, winning 28 medals and setting eight world records during the Olympics held in Mexico City.

• Key figures include sprinters Tommy Smith and John Carlos, who famously raised their fists in a symbolic protest during the US national anthem after receiving their medals.

• There was significant unrest and consideration of a boycott among Black athletes before the games due to racial injustices.

Background of the Protest

• Black athletes unanimously voted to endorse a boycott of the 1968 Olympic Games due to systemic racism and injustices faced by Black individuals in America.

• Leaders within the Black athlete community threatened to withdraw if their grievances weren't addressed.

• The Olympic Project for Human Rights (OPHR) initiated a coalition aimed at protesting racism in sports, founded by sociologist Harry Edwards in 1967.

Historical Racial Context

• The mid-20th century saw some integration with figures like Kenny Washington and Jackie Robinson breaking racial barriers in professional sports starting in 1946-1947.

• Although these advancements suggested progress, institutional racism persisted, exemplified by continued violence and socioeconomic struggles in Black communities, culminating in riots during the 1960s.

• The Civil Rights Act of 1964 ended legal segregation, but everyday racism and police brutality continued unabated.

The Black Power Movement's Influence

• The 1960s Black Power and student movements inspired Black athletes to vocalize their experiences and advocate for racial equality.

• Athletes recognized the opportunity presented by the upcoming Olympics to push for significant changes in society.

• The call for a boycott had been discussed since 1959, gaining traction at the Black Power Conference in 1967, which argued for using all means necessary to combat racism.

Demands of the Olympic Project for Human Rights

• OPHR articulated five key demands:

  • Disinviting South Africa and Rhodesia due to their apartheid practices.

  • Removing Avery Brundage, the president of the International Olympic Committee, due to his racist remarks.

  • Hiring Black coaches for US teams.

The Tension Leading Up to the Olympics

• Debate surged over participation versus boycott; many athletes still wanted to compete while seeking change.

• Uncertainty lingered as the OPHR hinted at possible decisions regarding attendance at the games.

• Ultimately, a vote concluded that a majority of Black athletes would participate, but many still planned to protest.

The Protest During the Medal Ceremony

• On October 16, during the 200-meter final, Tommy Smith won gold and set a new world record, while John Carlos won bronze.

• They delivered a planned protest by bowing their heads and raising their black-gloved fists, symbolizing defiance against racial injustice.

• Smith’s right glove symbolized power within Black America, while the left glove represented unity among Black individuals, with their shoeless attire and black socks illustrating their poverty.

• They also wore buttons supporting the OPHR to draw attention to their cause.

Consequences of the Protest

• The protest resulted in immediate repercussions: the International Olympic Committee suspended Smith and Carlos, revoking their credentials and expelling them from the Olympic Games.

• Sports journalist Howard Cosell publicly criticized the US Olympic Committee’s response, emphasizing the inseparability of sports and political realities.

Broader Implications

• Smith and Carlos highlighted that being a Black athlete did not shield them from systemic discrimination; they represented a broader struggle for equality.

• Their protest was a powerful assertion of identity, showing pride in their heritage and highlighting the ongoing social issues faced by Black Americans.

• The actions of Smith and Carlos can be seen as part of a continuum of Black activism in sports, resonating with contemporary movements like Colin Kaepernick's protests.