Fat Indigenous Bodies and Body Sovereignty: An Exploration of Re-presentations

Abstract

This article explores re-representations of fat Indigenous bodies and subsequently the ways in which access becomes restricted through multiple systems of oppression and biopower. I suggest a move away from body positivity movements in favour of body sovereignty as a response to racism, sexism, fatism and biopolitics. While body sovereignty and Indigenous sovereignty are not mutually exclusive, and body sovereignty is not a new phenomenon in Indigenous communities, it is proposed as a means to seek equitable rights of access for all bodies, particularly marginalised bodies. A Kaupapa Māori and Mana Wāhine perspective on body sovereignty is outlined and a discussion around how these understandings can conflict with societal messages is touched upon also. Utilising an account of Hine-Nui-Te-Pō, this article explores re-presentations of Indigenous women and our bodies.