Is there a word that means badge/ hallmark but has a negative connotation? [closed]

I want something for the sentence:

Being a minority is not a _____ of shame but a badge of honor.

Edit: I wanted the parallel between ____ and badge. See the accepted answer for details. Thanks to all who contributed!

Solution 1:

Consider mantle.

Being a minority does not confer a mantle of shame, but rather a badge of honor.

From Merriam-Webster linked above:

Definition of mantle

1] a : a loose sleeveless garment worn over other clothes : cloak

b : a figurative cloak symbolizing preeminence or authority of leadership>>

2] a : something that covers, enfolds, or envelops (see envelop 1)

Since minorities sometimes endeavor to hide their status (for example by changing their name to something that sounds less Hispanic, German or Jewish) 'mantle' may fit as both a figurative cloak and as a concealment. Examples would include Martin Sheen (Ramón Antonio Gerardo Estévez), Jack Benny (Benny Kubelsky), etc.

Solution 2:

"A mark of shame" fits your sentence, but "A brand of shame" might be even better here.

Brand 3b (1) : a mark put on criminals with a hot iron (2) : a mark of disgrace : stigma (Merriam-Webster)

Solution 3:

The word stigma implies both the 'badge' and the 'shame':

a mark of shame or discredit

_{source: Merriam-Webster}

But as @FumbleFingers notes, badge is an OK choice here as well.