Coolbaroo League facts for kids
The Coolbaroo League, also known as the Coolbaroo Club, was a special social club for Aboriginal people in Western Australia. The name "Coolbaroo" means "Magpie." This club was very important because it helped Aboriginal people connect and support each other during a time when they faced many unfair rules. It started in 1946 and continued until the early 1960s.
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The Coolbaroo League: A Place for Change
How the Club Started
The Coolbaroo League was created in 1946. It was started by Aboriginal soldiers who had returned home after serving in World War II. They wanted a place where Aboriginal people could gather, socialize, and support each other. At this time, many Aboriginal people faced unfair treatment and restrictions in the city.
Facing Unfair Rules
In the 1950s, Aboriginal people in Perth, Western Australia, faced many challenges. There were unofficial rules that made life difficult for them. For example, they often faced unfair treatment and had to carry special identity cards. There were also rules about where they could go and who they could spend time with. The Coolbaroo League became a safe place for Aboriginal people to escape these unfair conditions. It was the only dance club run by Aboriginal people in the city.
Sharing News and Ideas
Between 1954 and 1957, the Coolbaroo League published its own newspaper called the Westralian Aborigine. This newspaper was a way for the club to share important news and ideas with the Aboriginal community. It helped people stay informed and connected.
Making a Difference
The Coolbaroo League played a big part in helping to improve conditions for Aboriginal people. Even though a new law called the Native Welfare Act in 1954 aimed to lessen some restrictions, life was still hard for many. The club provided a vital space for social gatherings and community support. It helped Aboriginal people work towards a fairer future.
A Story Remembered
In 1996, a documentary film was made about the Coolbaroo League. The film helped share the club's important story with more people. It highlighted how the club provided a place of community and resistance against unfair rules.
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