Hey, I get it.
But I think what you may be missing is that they are still scared, it is just the consequences don't matter; under certain circumstances. It is difficult to explain unless you have lived it and I can understand if you don't believe me. Sometimes overcoming your fear is the least of your problems. If you have very little to live for other than working out where to get your next paint can or bottle of petrol from, then getting hurt isn't a big deal; at the time. Unfortunately, the coppers become the focus of the rage.
Many a time I have seen friends and relatives get locked up on purpose, just for the opportunity to spend some time with relatives, as it was the only option to do so. I've also seen young fellas smart enough to get locked up on purpose, as they only way they are going to get off the chrome and survive.
All the things you have mentioned, I have seen first had, especially at Wujal Wujal and Lockhart River, growing up. I hated the places, Lockhart in particular. Being scared doesn't stop the community rioting and it doesn't stop them hanging themselves in the watchhouse either. The truth is, often it is the case that you are going to get a flogging from the coppers, whether you deserve it or not.
I'm not saying any of that is right or wrong, and I know much, and in many cases most, of the blame falls squarely at the feet of the Aboriginal or less often Islander peoples. But it is not always the case, I can assure you.
I was very lucky to get off the communities when I was young enough, and I see what has happened to many who lacked the opportunities I had; many (most?) through no fault of their own.
I you do head up the cape, let me know and I can give you some pointers. I just came back from a trip up the cape to the Islands and PNG, island hopping with my boat.
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You know, I havent seen things getting better for Indigenous people overall. I can understand what you say about the younguns being scared but not caring about the consequences. It makes sense. The deaths in custody in WA seem to have stopped (to my knowledge), but the overall welfare of the indigenous doesnt seem to improve. The young need to have skills, jobs, and with that will come recovering self esteem. Only a few like Twiggy Forrest from FMG are doing anything to put the youth into the workforce. The ***mint (lol) is really doing stuff all. In the 60's and up to 1972, integration was taking place. Then came Whitlam , who offered big handouts. Knew a lot of long time employees here, who left their jobs for the extra benefits. One was a council truck driver for 15 years, and left his mates and his job for the increased benefits. He said he owed it to his family.
