George Abdullah facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
George Abdullah
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| Born | 9 August 1919 |
| Died | 6 August 1984 (aged 64) |
| Occupation | Community worker, Indigenous rights activist, soldier |
George Cyril Abdullah (born August 9, 1919 – died August 6, 1984) was an important Aboriginal community leader. He worked hard to improve the rights of Indigenous Australians. He did this by joining many groups and committees in Perth, Western Australia.
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George's Early Life
George Abdullah was born in Guildford, a suburb near Perth, Western Australia. He was the youngest of five children. His father, Joseph Benedict Abdul, was a labourer from Kolkata. His mother, Mary Salina, was an Indigenous Australian woman.
In 1944, George married Gladys Kelly. Their wedding was a Catholic ceremony held at the mission in New Norcia.
Working for Change
George Abdullah started working with the South Australian Railways in 1946. He worked as a labourer, truck driver, and linesman. During this time, he began to speak up for Aboriginal rights.
He later became a freelance welfare worker for Aboriginal people. This meant he traveled all over the country. He spoke to many people about the challenges faced by Indigenous Australians.
Helping Form Important Groups
George was very active in creating new groups to support Indigenous rights. Some of these groups included:
- The Coolbaroo League
- The Original Australians Welfare and Progress Association
- The Western Australia Native Welfare Council (which later became the Aboriginal Advancement Council of Western Australia)
In the 1970s, he helped start even more organizations. These included the Aboriginal Rights Council (later the Aboriginal Rights League) and the National Tribal Council. He also helped create the Aboriginal Development and Cultural Council.
George even tried to become a politician. He ran for the Senate as an independent in 1975, but he did not win.
Publishing Important Stories
In the 1970s, George was also part of a committee for the Aboriginal Publications Foundation. This foundation published a magazine called Identity. This magazine shared important stories and ideas from Indigenous Australians.
George's Legacy
George Abdullah passed away on August 6, 1984. He died in Nedlands, Perth, from a heart disease. He is remembered as a dedicated leader who worked tirelessly for the rights and well-being of Indigenous Australians.
