Depicting areas of indigenous Australian women’s subjugation under imperialism: An indigenous feminist study of Jack Davis's No Sugar and Eva Johnson's Murras

Abstract

This study aims to examine the portrayal of the oppression of Indigenous women in post-colonial drama focusing on themes of sexual violence, enforced sterilization and the Stolen Generation as depicted in Davis's No Sugar and Johnson's Murras. A qualitative analysis of these plays reveals the intertwining of sexual exploitation with colonial and imperial conquest. Rape and sexual abuse of Indigenous women are seen as metaphors for land exploitation and political subjugation. The findings of the study indicate a systemic violation of Indigenous women's rights. Indigenous women are sexually assaulted in both Murras and No Sugar which demonstrates imperialist control over their bodies. Another theme that develops is forced sterilization as shown in Murras in which indigenous young women are made sterile without their consent, symbolising a greater assault on aboriginal culture. The trauma of the Stolen Generation is outlined in both plays depicting the forced removal of Indigenous children from their families, severing cultural and familial bonds and originating a generational identity crisis. The preservation of Indigenous identity through women’s stories and traditional practices emerges as a significant aspect of resistance against colonial oppression. The selected plays underscore the role of Indigenous women in sustaining and transmitting cultural narratives and practices which is essential for preserving Indigenous identity and spirit. The findings of the research need a more in-depth understanding of the historical and ongoing oppression of indigenous women as well as a need for reparative justice.