This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/29/2017
An original Olympic Project for Human Rights (OPHR) badge worn in protest during the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. In one of the most famous Olympics photograph of all time, you see athletes Tommie Smith, John Carlos and Peter Norman wearing the OPHR badges during the playing of the U.S. National Anthem, with Tommie and John raising their hands in the Black Power salute. OPHR, created in October of 1967, was formed to protest against racial segregation in the United States and elsewhere (such as South Africa), and racism in sports in general. Made up mostly of African-American athletes and community leaders, the group advocated a boycott of the Olympics unless certain conditions were met including: South Africa and Rhodesia being uninvited from the Olympics (both countries were under white minority rule at the time), the restoration of Muhammad Ali's world heavyweight boxing title, Avery Brundage to step down as President of the International Olympic Committee and the hiring of more African-American assistant coaches. The boycott did not materialize, but the OPHR made their concerns known, loud and clearly, with the wearing of the badges at the ceremony. Very good condition. Comes with a Gotta Have Rock & Roll™ Certificate of Authenticity.