What the 1976 Montreal Games represent to those who boycotted it, 50 years later

Fifty years after the 1976 Montreal Olympics, athletes who chose to boycott the games for political reasons are reflecting on their decision, which underscored the power of sports to drive social change. The boycott, led by African nations in response to New Zealand's recent rugby match with apartheid-era South Africa, left many hopeful competitors, like a young Nigerian woman, unable to compete. This moment highlights the intersection of sports and politics, emphasizing how athletes' actions can resonate far beyond the field, influencing global attitudes and policies.