Meet Dr. Tonya Allen: Sharing Shirley Chisholm’s Legacy

By: Houjun Kamata

Dr. Tonya Allen has been working in the field of education for over 20 years. Dr. Allen contributed to expanding the Difference Makers series with the addition of Shirley Chisholm. Through her writing, she highlights the story of the first Black women elected to the United States Congress. Dr. Allen continues to promote representation, literacy, and inspire young readers through these stories.

What inspired you about Shirley Chisholm's leadership legacy?

I was inspired to write about Shirley Chisholm because my father referenced her early in my life. He told me about her leadership journey and let me know anything is possible based on her running for President. Her life was an example for me as a young Black girl.

How has being an educator inspired you to write this book?

I have wanted to write a book for a long time. I actually spoke about this several years ago as a dream I had. I believe that knowledge is power and that we have a responsibility to inspire others and help them find a love for reading.

Why do you believe books like the Difference Makers series are valuable?

Students need to know about these champions who are often not spoken of. We hear more negative narratives than positive ones. Books in this series are focused on people who look like them and share the challenges that they faced in order to become the leaders that they are.

Is there a significant figure that you believe needs more appreciation?

I can think of so many significant figures that need more appreciation. The two that stand out the most are Dorothy Height and Fannie Lou Hamer. Dorothy Height’s work resulted in earning a Presidential Medal of Freedom, and I think her legacy deserves being uplifted for others to learn about. I think Fannie Mae’s life history of resistance is a testament to her ability to persist in the midst of adversity.

Why is representation in books, or children’s books essential?

Representation in all books, especially children’s books, is essential. Children look to these stories to dream and think about who they can be in the future. When they see and read the legacy of these leaders, it leaves a mark on them that cannot be erased.

What role did books play in your life?

Books played a huge role in my life. I grew up reading books all the time. I enjoyed learning through reading, and it opened my eyes to a world beyond the world I lived in growing up.

What do you believe is the method to encourage kids to read?

I think we need to provide students with books that match their interests. Sometimes, we as adults have specific books in mind for students to read, but we need to encourage them to read whatever is of interest to them. I would love for people to learn about leaders from history; however, there are athletes who have a leadership legacy, as well as musicians and artists. We need to focus on getting them to read and spend less time judging what they are reading.

Dr. Tonya Allen’s insights remind us why representation in stories matters to young readers. She continues to uplift future leaders, one book at a time. Dr. Allen shines a light on Shirley Chisholm’s legacy for young readers. This light contributes to future readers’ understanding of leadership through the transformational power of literacy