HOUSTON – Big crowds are expected Saturday morning as Nike releases its latest Air Jordan tennis shoes.
At the same time, a Houston mother will mark the somber anniversary of her son's death. Joshua Woods, 22, died on December 21, 2012, after robbers demanded his newly purchased Air Jordan sneakers.
Three teenagers have been charged with capital murder and are awaiting trial in connection to his death.
Since his death, Woods' mother has started the organization, Life Over Fashion, in an effort to convince Nike to change the way it handles its distribution practices of limited edition shoes. Dazie Williams was joined by community activist Derrick Muhammad Friday evening in advance of Saturday's release.
Williams said retailers have already given out tickets to those wanting to purchase the shoes.
"There's going to be a lot of kids that want those shoes that didn't get a ticket. And already on social media, they're saying they've got to get the shoes; they've got to have those shoes. So I'm encouraging parents, go with your children," said Williams.
In addition, Williams and her supporters are asking people not to purchase the shoes at all if possible.
She and her supporters will be out at a Houston mall Saturday to educate people about the organization and gather signatures.
A spokesperson for Nike sent a statement to Local 2, stating, "Consumer safety is of paramount importance to us. We continue to work with our retail partners to share best practices and refine our launch process to improve the buying experience for our consumers. We encourage people wishing to purchase our products to do so in a respectful manner."