What Is Rabbit-Proof Fence About?
Rabbit-Proof Fence is a powerful historical drama that tells the true story of three Aboriginal girls in 1931 Australia who bravely escape from a government re-education camp and undertake a perilous 1,500-mile journey, guided only by the rabbit-proof fence and their unwavering desire to return to their family and culture.
The Stolen Generations: A Devastating Policy
The film Rabbit-Proof Fence, directed by Phillip Noyce, is based on the book Follow the Rabbit-Proof Fence by Doris Pilkington Garimara (Nugi Garimara). It sheds light on one of the darkest chapters in Australian history: the Stolen Generations. This refers to the systematic removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families by Australian federal and state government agencies and church missions, under various assimilation policies.
The policies, often justified by paternalistic and racist beliefs, aimed to integrate Aboriginal children into white Australian society. Children, often referred to as half-castes, were seen as a “problem” that needed to be solved through forced assimilation. They were taken from their homes and placed in institutions, missions, or adopted by white families, where they were forbidden to speak their language, practice their culture, or maintain contact with their families.
The Moore River Native Settlement
The film centers on the experiences of Molly Craig, Daisy Kadibil, and Gracie Fields, who were forcibly removed from their families in Jigalong, Western Australia, and taken to the Moore River Native Settlement. This settlement, overseen by the stern and dogmatic A.O. Neville, the Chief Protector of Aborigines, was designed to “civilize” and train Aboriginal children for domestic service.
The conditions at Moore River were often harsh, and the children were subjected to strict discipline and cultural suppression. The film portrays the emotional distress and cultural alienation experienced by the children, highlighting the devastating impact of the Stolen Generations on individuals, families, and Aboriginal communities.
The Significance of the Rabbit-Proof Fence
The rabbit-proof fence, a massive engineering project constructed in the early 20th century to protect Western Australia’s agricultural lands from rabbit plagues, serves as a powerful symbol in the film. For Molly, Daisy, and Gracie, it represents a literal and metaphorical pathway back to their home and their culture.
- The fence stretches across vast distances, a visible marker in the harsh Australian landscape.
- It provides a geographical guide, allowing the girls to navigate their way back to Jigalong.
- More importantly, it symbolizes their determination, resilience, and connection to their ancestral land.
The rabbit-proof fence becomes a beacon of hope and a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
A.O. Neville: The Antagonist and Representation of Policy
A.O. Neville, portrayed by Kenneth Branagh, is a central figure in the film, representing the government policies and ideologies that underpinned the Stolen Generations. While the film portrays him as a complex character, it ultimately positions him as the antagonist, embodying the paternalistic and racist attitudes prevalent at the time.
Neville genuinely believed he was acting in the best interests of the Aboriginal people, but his actions were based on a flawed and deeply prejudiced understanding of their culture and identity. His unwavering commitment to the assimilation policy highlights the dangers of cultural imperialism and the devastating consequences of imposing one’s own values on another culture. He also embodies the inherent problems in government’s assuming that they knew what was best for the Aboriginal population without consulting them.
The Film’s Impact and Legacy
Rabbit-Proof Fence had a significant impact both in Australia and internationally. It raised awareness about the Stolen Generations and sparked important conversations about race relations, reconciliation, and the ongoing impact of historical injustices on Aboriginal communities.
The film also served as a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural preservation, self-determination, and the resilience of the human spirit. It continues to be used as an educational tool in schools and universities to promote understanding and empathy towards Aboriginal Australians and their history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the historical accuracy of Rabbit-Proof Fence?
The film is based on a true story, but as with any adaptation, certain elements were dramatized for cinematic effect. However, the core narrative of Molly, Daisy, and Gracie’s escape and journey home is largely accurate, based on Doris Pilkington Garimara’s book and extensive research. The film accurately portrays the realities of the Stolen Generations and the harsh conditions at Moore River Native Settlement.
Who were the Stolen Generations, and why were they taken?
The Stolen Generations refers to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children who were forcibly removed from their families by Australian governments and church missions between the late 19th century and the 1970s. They were taken under policies aimed at assimilating Aboriginal people into white society, often under the belief that they would have a better life away from their families and culture.
What was the purpose of the Moore River Native Settlement?
The Moore River Native Settlement was one of many institutions established to house and “re-educate” Aboriginal children. Its purpose was to strip the children of their Aboriginal identity and train them for domestic service and other menial jobs. It was a place of strict discipline, cultural suppression, and emotional distress.
What is the significance of the rabbit-proof fence in the film?
The rabbit-proof fence is a powerful symbol of hope and resilience. It represents the girls’ connection to their land and their determination to return home to their families. It also serves as a literal guide, allowing them to navigate the vast Australian outback.
What was A.O. Neville’s role in the Stolen Generations?
A.O. Neville was the Chief Protector of Aborigines in Western Australia. He was a key figure in implementing the policies that led to the Stolen Generations. While he believed he was acting in the best interests of Aboriginal people, his actions were based on racist and paternalistic assumptions about their culture and capabilities.
Did all Aboriginal children who were taken away try to escape?
No, not all Aboriginal children who were taken away attempted to escape. Many were too young, too fearful, or lacked the opportunity. The experiences of the Stolen Generations were diverse, with some children being relatively well-treated while others suffered abuse and neglect. Molly, Daisy, and Gracie’s story represents an act of extraordinary courage and resistance.
What was the long-term impact of the Stolen Generations on Aboriginal communities?
The Stolen Generations had a devastating impact on Aboriginal communities, leading to intergenerational trauma, loss of culture and language, family breakdown, and increased rates of poverty, substance abuse, and mental health issues. The effects of these policies are still felt today.
Has the Australian government apologized for the Stolen Generations?
Yes, in 2008, then-Prime Minister Kevin Rudd delivered a formal apology to the Stolen Generations on behalf of the Australian government. This apology was a significant step towards reconciliation, but much work remains to be done to address the ongoing effects of the Stolen Generations.
What can I do to learn more about the Stolen Generations and Aboriginal history?
There are many resources available to learn more about the Stolen Generations and Aboriginal history, including books, documentaries, websites, and museums. You can also support Aboriginal organizations and initiatives that are working to promote reconciliation and healing. Start with the Bringing Them Home report and related resources.
Why is Rabbit-Proof Fence considered an important film?
Rabbit-Proof Fence is considered an important film because it raises awareness about a dark chapter in Australian history and sheds light on the experiences of the Stolen Generations. It promotes understanding, empathy, and dialogue about race relations and reconciliation.
Are the actresses who played Molly, Daisy, and Gracie Aboriginal?
Yes, the actresses who played Molly, Daisy, and Gracie – Everlyn Sampi, Tianna Sansbury, and Laura Monaghan – are all Aboriginal actresses from Western Australia. Their performances add authenticity and emotional depth to the film.
What are some other films or books about the Stolen Generations?
Besides Rabbit-Proof Fence and the book it’s based on, other resources about the Stolen Generations include the Bringing Them Home report, the film The Tracker, and numerous autobiographies and historical accounts. These resources provide diverse perspectives on the experiences of the Stolen Generations and their ongoing impact.