Peter Norman: Aussies Wake Up to a Wronged Hero Ann Jones - ABC Melbourne
go to original August 20, 2012

Australian Peter Norman (L) stands on the Olympics podium as John Carlos and Tommie Smith give the Black Power salute.

LISTEN: Ann Jones speaks with Laurie Norman about his brother Peter's story.

Peter Norman was a runner.

A very good runner.

In fact, he won a silver medal in the 1968 Mexico City Olympics.

But he isn't remembered for his speed.

He is remembered for the actions of two men he stood next to on the podium at the Mexico city Olympics.

As Tommie Smith and John Carlos raised their fists in a black power salute, Norman stood beside them in solidarity.

Norman was never again selected for an Australian team, despite qualifying various times.

In 2006, when Peter Norman passed away, the American Track and Field Association named the day of his funeral as Peter Norman Day, and they still celebrate it.

But up until this point, Australia has not acknowledged Norman's athletic prowess or egalitarian sentiment. Australia has not apoligised for Norman's ostracisation by the media and the athletics community.

All this could change tonight as Rob Oakeshott and Andrew Leigh introduce a bill into parliament to acknowledge Norman's actions.

We invite you to add your charity or supporting organizations' news stories and coming events to PVAngels so we can share them with the world. Do it now!