SJSU statue descriptive feature

Stoically standing under a sunny spring evening is 22-foot statues of Tommie Smith and John Carlos, both Olympic medalists of the 200-meter dash of the 1978 Olympics in Mexico.

Tommie Smith was an Alumni at San Jose State University and has gained major attention and praise from this bold statement.

Both are raising their fists in a black power salute with their heads bowed down in melancholy.

The two athletes are also sculpted with removed Puma shoes to symbolize the struggle and oppression of black poverty.

The statues of these tall athletes stand on grey cement podiums, with each stand marking first, second, and third place standing with the Olympic logo placed above Tommie Smiths' first place platform made from a mixture of colorful tiles.

The athletes rolled up sleeves also gives detail to their forearms making their veins visible to the eyes of viewers.

Both athletes are paved with shiny blue ceramic tiles places on their tracksuits.

The gold metal worn by Smith is particularly notable and shining when against the sunlight. 

Laying on top of Carlos' opened jacket depicts his bright red, emerald green and golden yellow bead necklace.  

Against Smiths left hip, he holds a wooden box with a glass face that encases olive branches signifying peace.

Engraved under the 2nd pace platform lies the words, "Fellow athlete Australian Peter Norman stood here in solidarity.  Take a stand." 

Also a badge is subtly placed on John Carlos stating, "Olympic protect for human rights".

This year would mark the 50th anniversary of this event and is a great time to view this statue of commemoration.