A sprinter at the Mexico City Olympics, Norman won the silver medal alongside Tommie Smith and John Carlos, both black Americans who almost boycotted their team in protest of segregation at home.

While Mexicans were being imprisoned or murdered for protesting for civil rights outside the stadium walls, the oppressive political climate made any athlete’s attempt to speak out about their views too dangerous to contemplate.

Despite this, Norman stood up on that podium in 1968 wearing a badge in solidarity while Smith and Carlos gave the black salute. It is an infamous moment in history for Carlos and Smith, but the story often overlooks Norman’s contribution.

Salute pays tribute to the sacrifices Norman made for his belief in equality and human rights, where a seemingly simple gesture affected the rest of his personal and professional life. With candid interviews from both Smith and Carlos, as well as the late Norman, this documentary paints a detailed picture of a man we should all be proud to call Australian.

Interwoven into the storyline is a tension-building overview of a world in political turmoil during the revolutionary 60’s, setting the stage for this tremendous event to take place.

The story, directed and produced by Norman’s nephew Matthew, is so passionately told and is a beautifully balanced tribute to Peter as well as an insightful and detailed account of the larger issues at hand. It is a piece of history worthy of knowing and remembering.

Interestingly, this film will be played on the Qantas planes carrying the Australian Olympic Team to Beijing. How times have changed.