Oct. 16, 1968: On this day, exactly 45 years ago, African-American gold medalist Tommie Smith and bronze medalist John Carlos raised their fists during the American National Anthem at the 1968 summer Olympics medal ceremony in Mexico City, Mexico after competing in the 200 meter dash.  They later described the gesture as “a salute to human rights.”  Smith, Carlos, and Australian silver medalist Peter Norman wore Olympic Project for Human Rights (OPHR) badges on their jackets.  In 2005, San Jose State constructed a 22-foot statue as a tribute to former student’s protest.  Smith and Carlos were also given the 2008 Arthur Ashe Award at the 2008 ESPY’s.

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