Tommie Smith and John Carlos Call for Equality
The 1968 Summer Games saw a flash of future conflicts in the United States when African American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos took the winner’s podium. Smith and Carlos bowed their head during the Star Spangled Banner and raised their fists high in a call for racial solidarity and true equality. At the height of the Civil Rights movement — this moment was huge. Even today, racial tensions are still high and moments like these feel even more relevant.
Tommie Smith And John Carlos Call For Equality
Ali Lights the Torch
In 1996 the Olympic Games turned 100 years old and Muhammad Ali was there to light the Olympic Flame during the opening ceremony. At this point in time Ali was already struggling with Parkinson’s. Still, the Greatest was there and his presence brought a level of awe to the already prestigious competition.
Ali Lights The Torch
