Race, Sex, and Civilization: The Colonization of Indigenous Sexualities

Abstract

This chapter explains how the notions of race, sex, and civilization that inspired Indigenous legislation contributed to what the authors call “the colonization of Indigenous sexualities.” The term refers to the processes of compulsory heterosexualization and heteronormativity of native peoples, based on scientific, theological, social, and cultural assumptions that inspired religious, academic, and political practices. This chapter also introduces reflections on the very colonial process, and how control over sex and desire are intrinsic parts of it, building on theoretical discussions developed by authors who address the interface between sex, colonization, race, and ethnicity, as well as post-colonial thinkers.