Legend Tommie Smith visits Athletica

Last Thursday, June 13, Tommie Smith paid us a visit. This exceptional visit enabled us to show him our state-of-the-art facilities, the ones that will serve Team USA athletes at the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

In addition to this, Tommie Smith shared his experience as an athlete and evoked his symbolic gesture during a round table organized within the Stade Stéphane Diagana. His inspiring testimony captivated and motivated all participants, young and old alike. As a reminder, Tommie Smith's historic gesture took place at the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City. After winning the gold medal in the 200 meters, Tommie Smith, accompanied by bronze medallist John Carlos, raised a black-gloved fist on the podium during the American national anthem. This powerful gesture was a silent protest against racism and social injustice in the USA. Both athletes also wore black stockings to symbolize black poverty in America. This courageous act became an emblematic symbol of the struggle for civil rights.
 
Many thanks to Tommie Smith for his visit and encouragement.