"Warriors of the Sun and Moon"

Albinism is a genetic factor in which individuals are born without melanin, the pigment responsible for colouring the skin, hair, fur and eyes. These conditions leave albinos vulnerable to the sun's rays and can cause serious damage to their health, such as problems with their eyesight and skin. This book presents albinism beyond genetic and biological factors, in which people often consider albinos to be 'disabled or sick'. The discussion is also extended to the issues of stigma, prejudice, invisibility and visibility, due to the need for more in-depth studies inside and outside academia, especially in the social sciences. It proposes new perspectives and understandings on the subject, debating the current situation of albinos in Brazil and in some African countries, where they are considered 'beings with magical powers'. This book also discusses some social markers of difference, including race and colour, in which we can think: How can an albino be black at the same time? How can the sun be the great villain for albinos? Thus, albinos are part of the discriminated minorities in society and are warriors fighting against invisibility, prejudice and the sun.

Autorentext

Adailton Aragão è sociologo e professore di scienze sociali. Studente di Master in Sociologia presso l'Università Federale del Paraíba - UFPB. Laureato in Scienze Sociali/UFPB. Specializzato in africanità e cultura afro-brasiliana. Membro del GRUPESSC/UFPB (Gruppo di ricerca su salute, società e cultura). Ricercatore sui marcatori sociali della differenza.