1968 Summer Olympics- Mexico City

On October 16, 1968, African American sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos, the gold and bronze medalists in the men's 200-meter race, took their places on the podium for the medal ceremony wearing black socks without shoes and civil rights badges, lowered their heads and each defiantly raised a black-gloved fist as the Star Spangled Banner was played, in solidarity with the Black Freedom Movement in the United States. Both were members of the Olympic Project for Human Rights. This Poster is a commemorative piece, honoring this day.

Looks Great Anywhere You Place It!

A close up image of the poster. This poster is perfect for any home's decor style. From Glam and Industrial, to Boho-Chic and Vintage inspired looks. The black and white image easily transitions into spaces of the same theme or vibrantly colored homes with rich reds, pinks, blues, prime and pastel. Create a space you love from living rooms and bedrooms to dorm rooms and bathrooms. Also sold in framed options or canvas in various sizes.

Product Details

Printed on Poster Paper Packed to arrive in Perfect Condition Paper Size: 36x24 Image Size: 36x24 ALSO Available Framed

More About The Event

Smith and Carlos (both of whom are National Track and Field Hall of Famers) were vilified at home for their stand. They were suspended from the U.S. team. They received death threats. But neither man ever apologized for his raised fist or his bowed head—and neither ever had need to.

"We were just human beings who saw a need to bring attention to the inequality in our country," Smith said years later, in a documentary on the 1968 MX City games. "I don't like the idea of people looking at it as negative. There was nothing but a raised fist in the air and a bowed head, acknowledging the American flag—not symbolizing a hatred for it."

"We knew that what we were going to do was far greater than any athletic feat," Carlos was quoted as saying at the time. "[Peter] said, 'I'll stand with you.'"

Carlos expected to see fear in Peter Norman's eyes before the medal ceremony, when there was no turning back from what they were about to do. But he didn't see fear.

"I saw love," he said.