A legacy of racial justice: SJSU honors Olympians 53 years after iconic protest

by Jana Kadah, Bay City News October 21, 2021November 9, 2021

Akilah Carter-Francique, SJSU professor and executive director of the Institute for the Study of Sport, Society and Social Change, speaks about a new booklet on racial and social justice activism at the campus during an event commemorating the 53rd anniversary of the famous protest by Black athletes at the 1968 Olympic Games. (Photo by Jana Kadah/Bay City News)

IT HAS BEEN 53 years since Olympic medalists Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their black-gloved fists in the air on the podium for racial justice and human rights.

What was a peaceful and silent protest sent shock waves through the world — forcing many to confront injustices and racism that exists in their communities. The impact of the gesture still reverberates, especially in San Jose, where the track stars attended San Jose State University.

Continue reading for free

Success! Your account was created and you’re signed in.
Please visit My Account to manage your account.