Originally Posted by corvette

Mexico City Olympics 1968
Sociologist Harry Edwards had been urging black athletes to boycott the Olympics to protest civil rights inequities in the U.S. The boycott didn't happen, but Edwards struck a chord with many, including San Jose State teammates Tommie Smith and John Carlos. As the national anthem played, they held up their gloved fists. The runners were booted from the Games, but their gesture resonated.