The Bison (Friends & Family) is a deconstruction/reconstruction sneaker paying tribute to my alma mater Howard University's mascot. Howard University is an Historically Black institution, recognized as "The Mecca" of excellence in education. Renowned for its historical significance, Howard University has been a beacon of academic achievement within the African/African American diaspora. It serves as a unifying force, bringing together a diverse collection of individuals who share in the rich cultural tapestry of the diaspora. As an educational cornerstone, Howard University not only imparts knowledge and skills but also fosters a sense of community, empowerment, and cultural pride, contributing significantly to the legacy of Black education and leadership in the United States.

The sneaker is a deconstruction/reconstruction of the Varsity Red Air Jordan 1 Low. In crafting The Bison (Friends and Family), the original red sole undergoes a transformative process, being coffee-dyed to echo the distinctive aesthetic of the existing Travis Scott collection. Complemented by white upper and bespoke blue checks crafted from Navajo Cow Pebbled leather, the sneaker uses Howard University school colors. This creation holds a special significance as the inaugural I/I design is open for recommissioning. This intentional tribute underscores the familial bonds cultivated within the university, portraying the sneaker as a symbolic link to the network's unity and shared values.