Celebrating Peter Norman’s story: Greens

Australian Greens spokesperson for sport and multiculturalism, Senator Richard Di Natale, today called for Peter Norman to be celebrated as part of the Australian story.

“Peter Norman’s story should be celebrated as part of the Australian story.

“Peter Norman was faced with a choice at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics and in that moment he decided to take a stand against racism. His brave actions live alongside the likes of Nicky Winmar lifting his jumper and pointing to his skin.

“Unfortunately his story has been ignored in Australia for too long.

“The Greens want make sure that Peter Norman’s story is formally recognised in a lasting way through a statue in honour of Peter Norman, and an award in his name for sportspeople who take action against racism.

“Collingwood player Dale Thomas’s recent actions to speak out against racist taunts aimed at an opposition player in the AFL would be a worthy contender.”

Today the Senate passed a motion moved by Senator Di Natale, which acknowledges Peter Norman’s brave act at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City.

Motion
That the Senate -
(i) recognises the achievements of Peter Norman who won the silver medal in the 200m sprint at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics;
(ii) acknowledges his brave action in the cause of racial equality by wearing an Olympic Project for Human Rights badge during the medal ceremony as African-American athletes Tommie Smith and John Carlos famously gave the ‘black power’ salute;
(iii) apologises to Peter Norman and his family for the failure to acknowledge his brave act and the failure to invite him as an official guest to the Sydney Olympic Games.

Media contact: Andrew Blyberg 0457 901 600