After official images hit the internet along with a rumored date, Aleali May has cleared up with confusion and provided us with a touching story surrounding her fourth Jordan collaboration.
In an Instagram post, Aleali May spoke on the idea of being one’s own true and authentic self. She amounted the success of her career to the mantra alone as she is known for including her native city of Los Angeles and its culture in everything she does. She states, “Growing up in the neighborhood, attending Hillcrest Elementary and LA’s Best After School Program, I learned first-hand from a community grounded in mentorship, discipline, and friendship. My community showed me how to find my truth by creating safe spaces that cultivated and celebrated my authenticity. It is only because of these relationships that I was able to be authentic and develop a sense of self-love.”
Additionally, May also dedicated this fourth Jordan collaboration, where she tackles an Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT, to her former drill team and its coach Shanora Holloway. The collection references the drill team through color choices, fabrics and overall spirit. It also embodies the essence of women empowerment simply with the name “Califia”. Califiia was a fictional Black queen who ruled an island of Black women and supposedly the reason behind the state of California’s name and origins. May expresses, “When we were young, we looked to these queens of our communities who came before us for inspiration, guidance, and empowerment. They looked to the elders for the wisdom and discipline needed to succeed on their own terms, despite having to fight twice as hard for half as much every step of the way. ”
Lastly, Aleali May put the rumors to rest and revealed the official release date of the Aleali May x Jordan “CALIFIA” collection. You can catch the Air Jordan 1 Zoom CMFT and accompanying apparel on SNKRS and select retailers on Thursday, April 22nd globally. Stay tuned as we will provide an official store list.
While you wait patiently, you can also read Aleali May’s interview with her drill coach Shanora Holloway on the Jordan site.
Photos: Nailah Howze; Makeup: Sage White; Hair: @hairbyess