John Kim 
1981 and 1976 – two important years for Nike and Black History in America. 1981 was the birth year of the Nike Air Force 1, and 1976 was the first year of Black History Month observance, and in 2011, the iconic footwear brand and commemorative month of February team up once again to release a special pair of the Nike Air Force 1. For the 35th year of Black History Month, Nike has decided to pay tribute to three great Black athletes of generations present and past. With ‘A Call to Greatness’ as the theme of the year, Julius Erving, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant are honored for their great individual achievements that have transcended the sport of basketball and have had profound effects on Black History. Through sport, greatness can be achieved, and this year, that message will be conveyed using the Air Force 1 Low as a vessel. The Nike Air Force 1 ‘Black History Month’ will release tomorrow at select Nike Sportswear retailers like 21 Mercer, but you can also pick up a pair now on eBay.
