Nice Ladies Don 'Touch Em' Ly By Ann Carr

Although the concept of niceness is mentioned several times in the text, Carr uses this as justification for the destruction of personal identity as a direct effect of colonialism. Carr recognizes niceness is about being colonized, as native women must be ‘trained’ to conform to societal norms (Hyman, Jan 17/17). When Sophie is asked anything about her life or routine she simply replies, “nice ladies always do” as if the idea of being nice is expected of her (Carr, 56). Even when Sophie is allowed to touch the babies she mutters “nice ladies don’ touch Em’ly” as if she is not allowed because she cannot have one of her own (Carr, 65). The author works to make the character realize the injustice right in front of her and is almost successful.