The virulent settler state: Theresa Rocha Beardall, ‘Social-Distancing the Settler-State: Indigenous Peoples in the Age of COVID-19’, in Glenn W. Muschert, Kristen M. Budd, David C. Lane, Jason A. Smith (eds), Social Problems in the Age of COVID-19, Vol 2, Cambridge University Press, 2023 | settler colonial studies blog

The virulent settler state: Theresa Rocha Beardall, ‘Social-Distancing the Settler-State: Indigenous Peoples in the Age of COVID-19’, in Glenn W. Muschert, Kristen M. Budd, David C. Lane, Jason A. Smith (eds), Social Problems in the Age of COVID-19, Vol 2, Cambridge University Press, 2023

30May23

Excerpt: The global spread of COVID-19 is quickly exacerbating existing racial and economic disparities, and in its wake, revealing the spatial dynamics of health and interlocking social inequalities that burden marginalized communities. Among Indigenous Peoples, increased risk of exposure is linked to the enduring settler-colonial logics of Indigenous elimination and present-day mistreatment of tribal communities by settler-states that occupy their lands. Specifically, Indigenous communities face social problems such as access to quality, affordable healthcare, sustainable public infrastructure, opportunities for economic self-sufficiency, nutritious food, and clean water. Relatedly, Indigenous cultures and languages are often stigmatized and othered, which may dissuade some Indigenous Peoples from seeking out medical and social services when in need.

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