When Maya and her brother arrive as small children in Stamps, they enter the segregated Jim Crow world of the deep South. Ask yourself which community places -- for example, the Store, the church and hiding places -- represent their lives in the Jim Crow South and in what ways. Also consider whether any of these places work ironically. For example, the Store is an emblem of segregation and second-class citizenship, because black people are not allowed to shop in stores for white patrons. Yet ironically, for Maya and her family, it also works as a symbol of independence and economic security.
Many passages in the book deal with dignity, either subtly or overtly. The scene in which Momma is taunted by poverty-stricken white children, the scene in which Willie hides his handicap, and various others all bespeak of dignity lost or gained. Study scenes or passages that deal with the topic, and think about how they play out as moments of triumph, shame or both. Make sure your argument is not too broad and pull examples as support from the text.
It's interesting to look at the ways in which Maya and her brother either succeed or fail in attaining security. Examine the ways in which people in the book have or lack security and how that affects their behavior and feelings. First you will need to define what you mean by security, which might be physical or psychological; then choose and develop a thesis around it.
Young Maya often feels as if she is a stranger, and this contributes to her sense of helplessness. Many of the characters are in some ways helpless and in other ways empowered, however feebly. Discuss which characters are helpless or empowered, and under what circumstances. Look at scenes and moments, but also consider the big picture to arrive at a suitable related thesis.