This meticulously crafted book offers readers an in-depth exploration of the profound influence Black footballers have had on the sport and broader cultural landscape.
David Adekoya's tome is structured around five pivotal themes: Beauty, Gift, Imagination, Action, and Celebration. Each section delves into the careers and contributions of Black players from various corners of the globe, painting a comprehensive picture of their impact on football's evolution.
The author's narrative stretches beyond mere celebration, serving as a poignant commentary on football's complex relationship with race. Adekoya skillfully navigates the delicate balance between honoring the sport's Black pioneers and addressing the persistent challenges faced by players of color in the modern game.
"Are We Allowed to Just Dream?" is the product of extensive collaboration, featuring contributions from a diverse array of creatives. The book seamlessly weaves together striking photography, evocative poetry, and insightful prose to create a multifaceted portrayal of Black footballers' experiences.
Adekoya's work stands as both a tribute and a call to action. While celebrating the accomplishments of Black athletes who have left an indelible mark on football, the book also prompts readers to confront uncomfortable truths about racism, prejudice, and marginalization within the sport.
This timely publication arrives at a crucial juncture in football's ongoing dialogue about racial equality. It offers a nuanced perspective on the progress made and the challenges that remain in creating a truly inclusive environment within the world's most popular sport.
"Are We Allowed to Just Dream?" is now available for pre-order through the book's official website. Its release is anticipated to spark important conversations about representation and equality in football, both on and off the pitch.
Maya Torelli
Straddling the worlds of art and communication, this creative professional established People in 2009, a content agency specializing in the fusion of words and visuals. Over the years, her work has spanned a variety of projects, including magazines and documentary films. Beyond her commercial endeavors, she dedicates herself to exploring the nature of imagery, with a particular focus on its interplay with other media forms, especially music. Her passion for music not only fuels her writing but also deeply influences her work as a filmmaker, shaping both her documentaries and video installations. With a voracious appetite for knowledge across philosophy, sociology, anthropology, and various scientific disciplines, she weaves these diverse interests into a unique, interdisciplinary approach to content creation, perspective-taking, and writing.