Happy B'day Tommie Smith Born June 6, 1944 (D-Day).

[oasis]

Tommie Smith will always be remembered for his courageous act at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City.

Smith, that year, had broken the world record for the 200 meter dash. He won that race in the Mexico Olympics, and his teammate John Carlos took third plac. While on the the Victory Medal Stand, he and teammate, Carlos held their fists high in the air, and bowed their heads during the playing of the American National Anthem.

"We were just human beings who saw a need to bring attention to the inequality in our country" --T.Smith.

[tulipsandroses]

1. Happy Birthday Tommie, Fists in the air and on bended knee is where we are now

Thank you to brave men like Tommie and Kaepernick.

[oasis]

2. In 1968 Smith and Carlos took a tremendous risk with their actions.

They had to return their medals and were suspended from the US Olympic team. Smith, a world record holder, had to know he wouldn't be contacted by Wheaties, McDonalds or Nike agents for ad contracts.

[oasis]

3. A kick for a great American hero who delivered a powerful message

on the world stage.