Tommie SmithEvery podcast appearance, updated as new ones drop

Olympic icon Tommie Smith reflects on his legendary Black Power salute in 1968 and the price of protest. This episode honors athletes who have used their platforms for political resistance, inspiring generations to take a stand—literally and figuratively.

The Office of Diversity and Inclusion presented a week-long celebration of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The events throughout the week were designed to facilitate both reflection and action toward a better appreciation of and respect for the dignity of every person. The 2023 MLK Commemorative Celebration featured a keynote address from Tommie Smith and the awarding of the annual Chancellor’s “Fulfilling the Dream” Award. Tommie Smith is a world record breaking gold medal Olympian and civil rights icon. During the 1868 summer Olympics, Tommie Smith broke the world and Olympic record with a time of 19.83 seconds and became the 200-meter Olympic champion. As the Star-Spangled Banner played in the wind at the Mexico City ceremonies, Tommie Smith and John Carlos stood on the victory podium, draped with their Olympic medals, each raised a clinched fist covered in a black leather glove in a historic stand for black power, liberation and solidarity. This courageous, unexpected worldwide event propelled Tommie Smith into the spotlight as a human rights spokesperson, activist, and symbol of African American pride at home and abroad. Tommie Smith has made a commitment to dedicate his life, even at great personal risk to champion the cause of oppressed people.