The 1968 Olympics was held in Mexico City. Two players named Tommie Smith and John Carlos, an African American athletes had won gold and bronze respectively in 200m race. They raised their voice against racism and discrimination in the US, during the medal ceremony they stood with clenched fists upraised, head bowed wearing black socks and no shoes while the American anthem was played.

To honor this courage of the athletes the San Jones State University installed a 20ft sculpture of Tommie Smith and John Carlos.