Arizona Brings Strong Memories of John Carlos

[goclark]

and Tommie Smith.

When I saw the photos of the college students that had chained themselves to the doors, I cried tears of pride.

One of my strongest memories, as a college student and being African American, was the day when John Carlos and Tommie Smith raised their hands at the Olympics.

A few months later my husband invited John Carlos to our apartment ~ just about 10 of us, listening to music and talking.

There he was just an ordinary young man, relaxing on my living room floor listening to Marvin Gaye on the stereo.

That evening he was just a mild mannered guy who made a difference.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1968_Olympics_Black_Power_salute

I read the link above (it is powerful and informative) and started crying again ~ for those of us in the struggle in the 60's it was a battle well worth the fight.
:patriot:

[WillyT]

1. Picture Here:

:kick:

[goclark]

2. Thanks for the photo ~ the link mentions Harry Edwards

as well.

> Sociologist Harry Edwards, the founder of the OPHR, had urged black athletes to boycott the games; reportedly, the actions of Smith and Carlos on October 16, 1968 were inspired by Edwards' arguments.<

During those times,about 200 members of the Black Community in Los Angeles were invited to a Series of Lectures at UCLA.

Many of the national leaders of the Struggle were invited to be Speakers... Jesse Jackson and so many more.

When I think of the young adults that were invited to attend,I realize how that powerful experience inspired us to stay involved in the Civil Rights struggle and strive to make a positive difference in our community and our world.

[WillyT]

5. You Are Quite Welcome !!!

I can't believe the unrecs...

There are some serious putzes about.

K & R !!!

:kick:

[AzJusticeFreedom]

3. Thank you for posting...

about that important moment in our civil rights history.

[goclark]

4. I was just reading some of the threads about Arizona

It is so sad to see this happening in 2010.

[goclark]

6. That is odd ~ thanks for your sensitivity nt