Cultural identity, based on individual's origin, serves as the foundation of self-perception and thrives on collective knowledge. This paper highlights the critical role of illustrations in fostering a strong sense of identity for Indigenous Children. As inheritors of a rich legacy, Indigenous Peoples, possess unique cultural traditions, and social structures that differ from predominant societies.

The first intentionally drawn picture, created 73,000 years ago on a rock, symbolizes the transition from survival to expressions of human culture through images. Despite a long history of images across ages, Dr. Sarah Parks' study, "Diversity in Children’s Books 2018," reveals the underrepresentation of Indigenous children in illustrations, affecting not only their self-awareness but also influencing the perceptions of white children by limiting their exposure to diverse protagonists.

In this cross-sectional study, systematic sampling is employed to assess the representation of Indigenous children in children's book illustrations, analyzing prevalence and potential biases.The study is examined with respect to the following factors:
A) Illustrations serve as an educational resource. Their visual effects support a better understanding of concepts. However, illustrations can also perpetuate stereotypes, or prejudice. B) The potential alienation of individuals from other communities if protagonists consistently belong to a particular race. C) Readers’ empathic feelings are related to the level of transportation involved. Transportation entails discernment, sentiments, and mental imagery proceeding from the story.
Findings from this study contribute to the ongoing discourse on the importance of representation in children's literature

Authors:
Maria Guadalupe Castaneda Tellez, Southern Methodist University, United States

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Maria Guadalupe Castaneda Tellez is a University Doctoral Student at Southern Methodist University in United States

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