Tommie Smith, a legendary Olympic champion, was recently honored at the Musée de l’Immigration in Paris for his lifelong commitment to fighting against racism and advocating for civil rights. More than 50 years after his iconic raised fist protest at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, Smith continues to be a powerful voice for equality and justice.
Smith, now 80 years old, was visibly moved by the standing ovations he received from the audience in Paris. When asked if he still fights against racism, his response was clear: “Even until this day. I do. A perpetual stand, forever. As long as there are human beings fighting for the rights of each other.”
The silent gesture that Smith and his teammate John Carlos made on the podium in 1968 was a bold statement against the racial injustice and segregation that plagued the United States at the time. By raising their fists in solidarity, they called for unity and human rights for all, regardless of color or nationality.
During the symposium at the museum, Smith reflected on the significance of that moment and the deep-rooted desire for social change that inspired their protest. He emphasized the importance of unification and the need to eradicate racism from society.
Smith also paid tribute to Peter Norman, the white Australian athlete who stood in solidarity with him and Carlos by wearing an “Olympic Project for Human Rights” badge on the podium. Norman’s courageous actions were a testament to his belief in human rights and his unwavering support for their cause.
In honoring Norman’s legacy and the enduring impact of their protest, Smith highlighted the importance of standing up for what is right and fighting against injustice. The legacy of the 1968 Olympics lives on through the ongoing struggle for equality and the pursuit of a more inclusive and just society.
As the world prepares for the upcoming Paris Olympics, Smith’s message of unity, equality, and social change serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of activism and the importance of speaking out against injustice. His unwavering commitment to fighting for civil rights continues to inspire generations of activists and advocates around the world.