"I don't know if you really accept yourself...How can you be proud of being Aboriginal after the humiliation and the anger and hatred you have."
This statement was made by the Human rights and Equal Opportunity Commission in 1997. It sums up all the thoughts and emotions of all the Aboriginal Australians that suffered in the Stolen Generation. This is the opinion of the Aboriginal race, but what did the white section of society think?
In 1837, recommendations were made to British Parliament about the protection of the 'natives' of Australia. Governors recognised that they had little control over the land as settlers and squatters were said to be 'in the way'. Because of this, they were eliminated. Special protection laws were implemented to 'smooth the drying pillow' of the Aboriginal race. These laws were devised to convert Aboriginals to Christians, defend them from the settlers, provide schooling for the young and apply special laws of supervision.
A 19th century engraving showing Australian "nativ...
Aboriginal flag
Playing the traditional aboriginal musical instrum...But, in reality, these laws would give government full control, and this is just what the parliament wanted, to be in control.
In 1909, the Aboriginal protection board expanded these laws to include the removal of children. It was thought by removing the children, especially the 'lighter coloured' ones or 'half-castes', they could be taught white ways. Plans were put in place to train these children in institutions as farm labourers and domestic servants -essentially slave labour for the wealthy.
The Parliament thoroughly believed that they were doing the right thing and these laws were put in place in the best interests of Aboriginal Australians.
Indigenous children have been separated from their families since the invasion of white people.
For many people of the Stolen Generations, the effects have been complex and have continued throughout their lives. On an individual...