Smith and Carlos - African Americans - lowered their heads and raised their black-gloved fists to the sky. This gesture became a protest against racial discrimination in the USA. Australian sprinter Norman did not raise his fist but supported the protest by wearing the civil rights movement badge.

This act became one of the most striking political acts in the history of sports. The International Olympic Committee suspended Smith and Carlos from competitions, and Norman was later effectively excluded from future Olympics.

Over time, the photograph gained cult status - as a symbol of courage, solidarity, and the struggle for equality. In 2005, the Australian government officially apologized to Peter Norman, and in 2008, a memorial was erected in California, on which an empty seat on the pedestal was reserved for him - as a sign of recognition of his support and position.