Pushed to the Edge: Homeland Outcasts

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of British colonization on present Australian Aboriginal diet and health. Two crucial timelines are included in this paper. The first follows the foodways of the Natives, with evidence of lingering foodways present today. The second describes the increased presence and power of the British government, specifically in policies relating to Aboriginals. The research questions grounding this paper are, how did British colonization marginalize and displace Aboriginals? In what ways did the diet for Aboriginals change due to British colonization? And, what are the health concerns Aboriginals are suffering as a result of colonization? My paper is in conversation with much ongoing research that focuses on the impact of colonial policies for Native populations worldwide. At-home research included modern-day footage and interviews of Aboriginals. I relied mainly on present-day sources for Aboriginal perspectives as much of their knowledge had been traditionally spread via word-of-mouth. British writers were also utilized with their description of Native foodways. Most highlighted the biases which were used to justify disproportionate British policies. The final piece of research included the information and conversations of the food tour with my guide who spoke about colonial policies and their impact on his family.