'Rabbit-Proof Fence' is a powerful and poignant true story set in Australia during the 1930s. It follows the journey of three young Aboriginal girls, Molly, Daisy, and Gracie, who are forcibly removed from their families by the Australian government as part of its policy to assimilate Indigenous children into white society. The girls are taken to a remote settlement, but determined to return home, they escape and embark on an incredible journey back to their families, using the vast rabbit-proof fence as their guide. The film highlights the resilience, strength, and indomitable spirit of these girls as they defy all odds and navigate the harsh landscape, facing numerous challenges and encounters along the way. Their story sheds light on the unjust treatment of Indigenous Australians and serves as a powerful testament to the unbreakable bond between mother and child and the enduring spirit of the Aboriginal people.
Watch the Film...
Reflection Questions Silently journal the answers to 3 of the following questions for 10 to 15 minutes.
How did watching 'Rabbit-Proof Fence' make you feel about the historical treatment of Indigenous Australians and the policy of forced assimilation?
What were some of the major challenges and obstacles faced by Molly, Daisy, and Gracie on their journey? How did they overcome them?
Reflect on the significance of the rabbit-proof fence as a symbol in the film. What does it represent in terms of the girls' journey and their connection to their culture and homeland?
Discuss the role of resilience and determination in the girls' story. How did their unwavering spirit contribute to their survival and ultimate reunion with their families?
Consider the themes of identity and belonging in the film. How did the forced separation from their families impact the girls' sense of self and their cultural identity? How did they find strength in their Aboriginal heritage throughout their journey?
Listen to this music as you do that
Discuss
Then, Discuss as a group.
Common Prayer Are there any prayers you would like to share as a group?The Response is 'Lord hear us' and 'Lord hear our prayer'.
Final Prayer
Loving Spirit who dwells in the land,
We come before you today with heavy hearts, reflecting on the profound issues that have been raised through the film 'Rabbit-Proof Fence.' We acknowledge the pain and suffering endured by Indigenous Australians during a dark chapter in history, as forced assimilation policies tore families apart and threatened cultural identity.
We pray for healing and reconciliation for all those affected by this painful past. May the wounds of the stolen generations be acknowledged and may justice and understanding prevail. Help us to confront the legacy of these injustices with empathy and a commitment to change, so that such harm may never be repeated.
Grant strength and resilience to those who, like Molly, Daisy, and Gracie, have endured unimaginable hardships and continue to fight for justice and equality. May their voices be heard and their stories shared, so that the world may learn from their experiences and work towards a more inclusive and compassionate future.
Guide us, Spirit of today tomorrow and yesterday, to uphold the dignity and rights of all people, regardless of their background or heritage. Help us to foster a society where cultural diversity is celebrated, where Indigenous knowledge is respected, and where reconciliation becomes a reality.
As we reflect on the themes of identity, belonging, and the enduring spirit portrayed in the film, inspire us to value and protect the unique cultural heritage of every individual. May we actively work towards creating a world where all children can grow up with their families, connected to their land and traditions.
In your wisdom, grant us the courage to confront the injustices of the past, the compassion to listen to those affected, and the determination to build a future based on truth, understanding, and respect. May the lessons learned from 'Rabbit-Proof Fence' guide us in our journey towards healing, reconciliation, and a more just society.
