The Present

The impact of Kareem’s boycott extended far beyond the 1968 Olympics. It helped redefine the relationship between sports and activism, inspiring future generations of black athletes to use their platforms to advocate for justice. His stand contributed to the broader civil rights struggle by exposing the hypocrisy of American institutions that celebrated black excellence in sports but denied black citizens fundamental rights. By standing firm in what he believed to be just, Kareem left a lasting legacy—not just in basketball, not just in sports, but in the fight for civil rights and racial justice in America.

Now long retired from the NBA, where he played his final game in 1989, Kareem continues to be a prolific, impactful activist in the present. Despite being in his late 70s as of 2025, his mind is sharp as ever. He gives speeches calling for a more just society for people of all races and creeds, authors books, and spreads his message even in a society that is far more just than it was in 1968 thanks to his fearless efforts. And because of this tireless social justice activism, he was bestowed the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama, who stated that Abdul-Jabbar is an American who illumates the country's highest aspirations.

America is a far more racially equal society than it ever was in 1968 thanks to Abdul-Jabbar's efforts, and those of all creeds have an opportunity to live the same life as someone of another skin color or ethnic origin.