Rabbit-Proof Fence

The year 1931 was marked by systemic injustices and policies aimed at the forced assimilation of Aboriginal Australians. This period saw the implementation of controversial measures that directly targeted the Aboriginal population, particularly the so-called 'half-castes,' leading to the loss of cultural identity and family separation.

Jigalong is a remote town in Western Australia, known for its location along the rabbit-proof fence. The Moore River Native Settlement served as a grim facility for Aboriginal children, where they were subjected to harsh regulations and prohibited from speaking their native languages. Perth, located over a thousand miles away, served as the authority center for policies affecting Aboriginal peoples. Wiluna, a nearby town, is a significant stop on the girls' treacherous journey.

🚨 Survival

The theme of survival runs deeply through the journey of the sisters as they navigate perilous landscapes and oppressive authorities. Their determination to return home highlights resilience against the backdrop of systemic oppression. The struggle to maintain their identities amidst forced assimilation embodies the fight for survival in the face of adversity.

👩‍👧‍👧 Family

Family is a central theme in the bond between the sisters and their drive to reunite with their mother and grandmother. The preposterous separation inflicted by authorities underscores the emotional impact of familial bonds and the lengths one will go for loved ones. This theme portrays the strength found within familial relationships during times of crisis.

🛑 Colonialism

Colonialism is a powerful theme throughout the narrative, as it critiques the invasive policies that sought to erase Aboriginal cultures. The actions of the Protector and the justification of taking children away from their families embody the violent realities imposed by colonial rule. The movie serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing effects of colonialism on Aboriginal communities.