RACISM PROTESTS
No regrets over black power salute in 1968
Herzogenaurach, Germany — Tommie Smith, the former US sprinter who won Olympic gold 50 years ago, is glad his decision to raise a black-gloved fist on the podium has inspired others even if it cost him his running career, as he sees a groundswell of support for equality. "I knew it would have an impact but I didn’t know how far it would go," the 74-year-old Smith said ahead of the 50th anniversary of the protest on October 16, 1968. The image of Smith and fellow African-American athlete John Carlos — gold and bronze medalists in the 200m sprint in Mexico City — bowing their heads and thrusting right and left gloved fists respectively into the air became an enduring symbol of the turbulent 1960s and the fight for racial equality. "It was a calling for me to do it… a lot of people had died for the sake of equality. That was my chance. I had a platform." The protest has attracted renewed interest since quarterback Colin Kaepernick began a wave of African-American players in the Nationa...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.