Gilbert Allen MSW ’17 publishes book on rising up from racism and poverty

Gilbert Allen MSW ’17 (left) and his brother, Michael (right), stand with their recently published book, “Brotherly Love.” Photo courtesy of Michael Allen.

July 1, 2021

Gilbert Allen MSW ’17 and his brother, Michael, have released a book titled , a children’s book that centers on the brothers’ story growing up as Black men in poverty with drug-addicted parents and rising up to become a school principal and social worker.

After being told to focus on athletics rather than academics while he was growing up, Gilbert said he felt it was important to show young Black children examples of Black people as scholars.

“I remember growing up and not being able to go in libraries and get books of characters that look like me,” Gilbert said. “We wanted to put our voice out there as people of color to help young people know there are other people going through similar things they’re going through and inspire hope in them.”

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