Week 3. Stolen Generation

What were the Protection and Assimilation Policies?

These were policies that placed Aboriginal people under government control, restricting their movements, employment, and cultural practices. Many were forced onto missions or reserves with inadequate healthcare and sanitation, leading to increased disease and malnutrition.

What was the impact of the Stolen Generations?

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children were forcibly removed from their families under government policies, resulting in intergenerational trauma, loss of cultural identity, and long-term negative health effects.

What were the key features of the Stolen Generations policies?

Children were removed from families between 1910 and 1970, often experiencing abuse and neglect. They were placed in institutions or fostered by non-Indigenous families, which caused cultural disconnection and identity loss.

How did the 1967 Referendum affect Aboriginal health and wellbeing?

The 1967 Referendum allowed the federal government to pass laws regarding Aboriginal people, leading to reforms, including self-determination policies aimed at restoring Indigenous control over healthcare and education.

What was the impact of the Kinchela Aboriginal Boys Training Home (KBH)?

KBH housed Aboriginal boys forcibly removed from their families. The site holds painful memories of abuse and the forced assimilation of Aboriginal children into white society, contributing to the trauma experienced by the Stolen Generations.

What are some immediate impacts of the Stolen Generations on health and wellbeing?

Immediate impacts include mistrust, loss of culture, family, and language, as well as psychological harm and physical injury.

What are some ongoing health implications for the descendants of the Stolen Generations?

Descendants experience intergenerational trauma, cultural disconnection, mental health issues (e.g., depression), and are more vulnerable to physical, psychological, and sexual abuse.

How did the Stolen Generations affect education and future prospects?

Children removed from their families were less likely to have secondary education and were three times more likely to have a police record.

What are some health challenges faced by aging survivors of the Stolen Generations?

Aging survivors are more likely to develop dementia due to trauma and face difficulties accessing health services as their health status changes.

What are some common trauma triggers for Stolen Generations survivors?

Triggers include clinical settings resembling institutions, authoritative tones of voice, certain gestures, and situations that bring back feelings of lack of control experienced during their removal.

What is trauma-aware, healing-informed practice?

It is a strength-based approach to healing that recognizes the impacts of trauma and prioritizes cultural, spiritual, physical, psychological, and emotional safety. It aims to avoid further harm and empowers individuals through understanding and support.

What organizations support Stolen Generations survivors?

Organizations include the Healing Foundation, Kimberley Stolen Generations, Link Up NSW, Kinchela Boy Home Aboriginal Corporation, and South Australian Stolen Generation.