Sport, Politics and the Olympics

One of the most iconic moments ever to take place in sports occurred at the 1968 Olympic games in Mexico City Mexico. When American athletes John Carlos and Tommie Smith both raised their fist high in the air wearing black gloves during the national anthem; as the two of them stood on the podium during the award ceremony. This action as been coined as the "Black Power Salute". They did this to bring awareness to inequality in our country. Many people including Americans were furious with what these two men had done. On the other hand people all around the world were excited at the fact that John Carlos and Tommie Smith could stand brave in front of the world supporting what it was that they believed in, with a country that has not always demonstrated exactly what it stands for. As a result these two men were suspended from the U.S. Team, but still neither of them have apologized for the actions.  Another important thing to notice was the Australian silver medalist Peter Norman who too stood tall with Carlos and Smith supporting them with their beliefs.  A sense of Nationalism was showed during this time, because the timing of raising the fist was critical. They did not raise them when they won the race, but waited until they were standing before the world and America's national anthem was being payed. This symbolized so many different things but nationalism is key. In that moment They identified as Americans, but it was not only about them.  It was a chance for all black people who were being mistreated in America to have a chance to feel like and be proud to be living in America. It is difficult to say that sports are free from political influence. This is because the people who participate, manage, and operate sports are not free from political influence. Many sporting events influence diplomatic and social relations in out society. Sports have given us the opportunity to bring people together and put aside our cultural differences. Race and Ethnicity may cause division, but sports are a big reason we are able to disregard the many differences. Over the years there have been positive and negative affects, but without them change will never happen. The different Olympic games are a prime example of this. Race and Ethnicity may cause division