Dr. Harry Edwards
Meet the Activist-Scholar and Founder of the ISSSSC
From student-athlete to activist-scholar, Dr. Harry Edwards’ life and work demonstrate that sport is a window to society, revealing a broad range of social and political concerns that affect us all. His devotion to the cause of human rights spans decades—and serves as an inspiration for activists and athletes everywhere. In 1967, Dr. Edwards became the architect of the Olympic Project for Human Rights. This project was created to highlight and protest racism and segregation in sports, and led to the iconic image of two Olympic medalists Tommie Smith and John Carlos, raising their fists during their medal ceremony.
An Advocate and Mentor
Dr. Edwards has served as a consultant to the San Francisco 49ers, the Golden State Warriors and has been a major proponent for getting more people of color into management positions in professional sports.
Focusing on Equity and Social Justice
He has brought his vast experience of fighting for equity and social justice to the the Institute for the Study of Sport, Society and Social Change (ISSSSC), of which he is a founding member.
Putting Words into Action
Together the ISSSSC and Dr. Edwards use sport as a tool to encourage meaningful positive social change, in hopes that we can create a more equitable future for all.
