Lecture Notes: It's So Hip to Be Black by Andrew Bolt

Introduction

• Author: Andrew Bolt
• Source: Herald Sun, April 15, 2009
• Topic: Critique of the trend of self-identifying as Aboriginal in Australia, particularly among individuals with mixed or predominantly non-Aboriginal ancestry.

Main Argument

• Political Aborigine: Bolt introduces the notion of "political Aborigine," where individuals identify as Aboriginal for perceived benefits in academia, arts, and professional activism.
• Key Examples:
  • Bindi Cole: Artist identifying as Aboriginal despite having an English-Jewish mother and part-Aboriginal father.
  • Annette Sax: Artist with Swiss father and part-Aboriginal mother.
  • Tara June Winch: Writer with English mother and Afghan-Aboriginal father.
  • Larissa Behrendt: Professor with German father.
  • Anita Heiss: Academic with Austrian father and part-Aboriginal mother.

Themes

• Identity and Politics: Bolt argues self-identification as Aboriginal is more about political advantage than cultural or racial ties.
• Racial Divisions: Criticizes the notion of emphasizing racial differences that are not overtly visible.
• Historical Context:
  • Mentions past figures such as Pat Eatock, who identified as Aboriginal for political reasons.
  • References other leaders with mixed ancestry like Geoff Clarke and Lowtija O'Donoghue.

Criticisms

• Opportunism: Implies that some individuals may identify as Aboriginal for career advancement.
• Cultural Authenticity: Questions the authenticity of claiming Aboriginal identity with limited or mixed ancestry.
• Racial Divisiveness: Argues that focusing on racial differences undermines efforts to be "color blind."

Conclusion

• Human Unity: Advocates for moving beyond racial pride to focus on shared humanity.
• Call to Action: Suggests finding commonalities to unite rather than inventing reasons for division.

Reflection

• Humanist Ideals: Critiques the self-identification trend as contrary to humanist ideals of unity and equality.
• Beyond Race: Encourages pride in being human rather than emphasizing racial distinctions.

Andrew Bolt's article, "It's So Hip to Be Black," argues that some individuals of mixed or predominantly non-Indigenous ancestry are self-identifying as Aboriginal for political or career gain. While he claims not to accuse anyone of opportunism, the overall tone and examples used strongly suggest this implication. This framing can be seen as discriminatory because it:

• Undermines Aboriginal identity: By implying that many who identify as Aboriginal are doing so insincerely, Bolt diminishes the legitimacy of Aboriginal identity itself. This is particularly harmful given the historical context of dispossession, assimilation, and the ongoing struggle for recognition. His assertion suggests that Aboriginality is a choice, rather than a complex and deeply rooted cultural and ancestral connection.

• Reinforces harmful stereotypes: The article perpetuates the stereotype that Aboriginal people are somehow "gaming the system" for personal advantage. This reinforces negative prejudices and undermines the genuine struggles faced by many Aboriginal people who experience systemic racism and disadvantage.

• Ignores diversity within Indigenous communities: The article presents a simplistic view of Aboriginal identity, neglecting the rich diversity of cultures, histories, and family lineages within Indigenous communities. His focus on the perceived "whiteness" of certain individuals obscures the complex realities of Aboriginal kinship and social structures.

• Disregards the impact of colonialism: The article fails to acknowledge the devastating impact of colonization on Indigenous Australians, including the forced removal of children, the suppression of culture and language, and the ongoing effects of intergenerational trauma. This historical context is essential to understanding the complexities of Aboriginal identity and the reasons why people might choose to identify as such.

• Promotes a narrow definition of Aboriginality: The article centers on visual appearances to determine who is "authentically" Aboriginal. This ignores the fact that Aboriginal identity is often determined through kinship ties and cultural affiliation, which are not always reflected in physical traits.

In essence, while Bolt frames his argument as a critique of political opportunism, his framing ultimately serves to undermine the lived experiences and self-determination of Aboriginal people, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and contributing to a climate of racial discrimination. His language and examples create a narrative that casts doubt upon the authenticity of Indigenous identity, rather than engaging with the complexities of Aboriginality in a respectful and nuanced manner.