Blackfella facts for kids

Blackfella (also blackfellah, blackfulla, black fella, or black fellah) is an informal term used in Australian English. It usually refers to Indigenous Australians, especially Aboriginal Australians. People often use this term among themselves.

Similarly, the term Whitefella is used, especially by Aboriginal people. It refers to non-Aboriginal or European Australians. These terms are part of everyday language in Australia.

Understanding "Blackfella" and "Whitefella"

What Do These Terms Mean?

The terms "Blackfella" and "Whitefella" are informal ways to talk about people in Australia. "Blackfella" refers to Indigenous Australians. This includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. "Whitefella" refers to people who are not Indigenous. Most often, this means Australians of European background.

These words are often used in casual conversations. They are not formal or official terms. They help people identify themselves and others within different groups.

Why Are These Words Used?

These terms are commonly used within Indigenous communities. They can be a way to show connection and identity. Using "Blackfella" can be a way for Indigenous people to refer to themselves and their community. It can show a sense of belonging.

The term "Whitefella" is also used by Indigenous people. It helps distinguish between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. These words are part of the unique way Australians speak.

Respectful Language Matters

It is important to understand that these terms are informal. While they are often used by Indigenous people, especially among themselves, they can be seen differently by others. When talking about Indigenous Australians, it is always best to use respectful and official terms. These include "Indigenous Australians," "Aboriginal people," or "Torres Strait Islander people."

Using the right words shows respect for people's heritage and identity. Learning about these terms helps us understand Australian culture better.

"Blackfella" in Australian Culture

Music and Film

The terms "Blackfella" and "Whitefella" have also appeared in Australian culture. For example, the Warumpi Band released a famous song called "Blackfella/Whitefella". This song was co-written by singer George Rrurrambu and guitarist Neil Murray. It talks about different people living together in Australia.

There is also a film from 1993 called Blackfellas. This movie was based on a novel by Archie Weller. These examples show how these terms are part of Australian storytelling.

Different Names for Different Groups

It is important to remember that Indigenous Australians are not one single group. There are many different Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander nations. Each nation has its own language, culture, and history. For example, the term Koori is used by Aboriginal people in Victoria and New South Wales. This is just one of many specific names used by different Indigenous groups across Australia.

Learning about these different names helps us appreciate the rich diversity of Indigenous cultures.

See also

• "Blackfella/Whitefella", a song by Warumpi Band.
• Blackfella Films, a film production company.
• Blackfellas, a 1993 film.
• Indigenous Australians § Terms "black" and "blackfella"
• Koori, a term used by Aboriginal people in Victoria and New South Wales.
• List of Australian Aboriginal group names
• Black Australians (disambiguation)