Power from the Podium

Power from the Podium: The Story of Black Olympians Tommie Smith and John Carlos, is a passionately written and richly illustrated story of two Olympic icons whose silent Black Power protest at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico. From the awards podium during the playing of the American National Anthem, these men sent a powerful message about race that reverberated globally, transforming world consciousness about race in America as well as changing their lives forever. Remembered as courageous trailblazers, with their raised fists, heads bowed, and Black Panther black-gloved hands their action symbolized one of the most powerful protests in sports history to call attention to social justice and racial equality. Today, Smith and Carlos are celebrated as pioneers of athletic activism and like Muhammed Ali's 1967 Vietnam protest have inspired generations of athletes to use their platforms for social and political causes including Colin Kaepernick's kneeling protest in the NFL. In Power from the Podium: The Story of Black Olympians Tommie Smith and John Carlos, Dr. Ptahsen-Shabazz captures their brave spirits and greatness as never captured before.