Like many of you, Nike Cortez was once my affordable go-to sneaker choice. It was a product that people of all backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses could enjoy. Personally, these were the only Nikes I could really afford and they have always held a special place in my heart.

However, the tides have horribly turned. My favorite pair, a suede and nylon wolf grey Nike Cortez that I bought for a reasonable $64.99 in 2016, now goes for $250 or more. The mass appreciation for this shoe has been disregarded and overshadowed by the company's greed. The appeal of the Nike Cortez to lower-income individuals was partly based on its AFFORDABILITY.

But why did this change happen? Nike temporarily discontinued selling the shoe causing prices to soar, leaving these iconic sneakers only accessible to a demographic that cares more about their trendiness than their heritage and value. What was once an affordable footwear option for many has turned into a luxury good - quite frankly, a status symbol!

Nike Cortez isn’t just a shoe. For me, and many others, it represents a cherished element of our past, and a bittersweet reminder of who we were when we wore them. Price hikes due to targeted marketing ploys should not be a reason for stealing that nostalgia from us.

We should not stand idle, allowing corporate greed to rob the younger generation of the joy and pride of owning a pair of Nike Cortez. It's time to demand Nike to reinstate the affordability and accessibility of Nike Cortez. Let's urge them to put people over profit and bring those affordable prices BACK. Please sign this petition and let's restore affordable prices for the Nike Cortez.