You've probably seen the iconic picture of Tommie Smith's Black Power salute at the 1968 Olympics. But look around sports today, and you won't find much to compare to that landmark statement. Even Michael Jordan once declined to take a political stance by noting Republicans buy his shoes, too.

So why aren't today's athletes, who have huge media footprints and great influence among their fans, use their position for political advocacy? Tommie Smith has a solid theory.

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