Allyship at the The 1968 Olympics

Throughout history people with privilege have stood up and fought back alongside marginalized groups. We call these people allies. The 1968 Olympics provide an indelible example of standing with conviction for what is right and what is just.

When athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos performed the Black Power salute during the 1968 Olympics in Mexico, they sent out a powerful message that resounded around the world.

Smith and Carlos’ raised-fist gesture while on the podium after winning medals in the 200-meters final was a protest against the ill treatment of African Americans in the United States. The Civil Rights Act was just four years old at the time.

But there was another man standing with them that day. This is the story of Peter Norman.