Addressing Stigma in 'Emmanuel's Dream' and 'I Am Rosa Parks' Picture Books

Abstract

This study entitled “Stigma Actions in Emmanuel’s Dream and I Am Rossa Parks Picture Books” purposed to analyze how the issue of stigma depicted in Emmanuel’s Dream (2015) by Laurie Ann Thompson and I Am Rosa Parks (2014) by Brad Meltzer. The picture books described the stigma issues happen in the main characters’ life; rooted from their differences from the society. Emmanuel was born disabled and Rosa had physical defect despite her black skin color. Both were experiencing stigma actions performed by the people around them. In conducting this study, the writer applied the qualitative method as the analysis depicted in various perspectives, pictures, and text. The analysis is accomplished by applying Erving Goffman’s (1963) theory of stigma. The study found that the main characters strive against disqualifying actions and negative thoughts from the society. In relation to the struggling condition, both characters gain self-achievement, obtain their rights; thus, prove that they could stand equally as normal people.

 Keywords: picture book, stigma