Indonesia Calling by Joris Ivens 1946 - Indonesian Subtitle

Summary

The video script narrates the historic struggle of Indonesia for independence post-World War II and the solidarity shown by Australia. It details the journey of the Esperance Bay ship carrying Indonesians and the Australian government's assurance against Dutch interference. The script also highlights the support from Australian trade unions, the Indonesian community's cultural preservation in exile, and the collective resistance against Dutch recolonization efforts. This includes a significant dockworkers' strike that prevented Dutch ships from carrying arms to Indonesia, reflecting the broader international support for Indonesia's freedom.

Takeaways

• 🚢 The Esperance Bay was one of the first ships to sail from Australia to Indonesia after World War II, symbolizing the reestablishment of trade and contact between the two nations.
• 🏗️ Indonesians in Australia were actively involved in the fight for Indonesian independence, demonstrating their commitment to the cause through various forms of support.
• 🎭 Indonesian culture was showcased in Australia through traditional dances and music, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of their heritage.
• 🤝 The Australian labor movement played a significant role in supporting Indonesian independence, reflecting solidarity among workers across national borders.
• 🛑 Australian wharfies took direct action by refusing to load ships with arms and supplies that could be used against the Indonesian people, highlighting their commitment to the principles of the Atlantic Charter.
• 🚫 The 'black ban' on Dutch ships was a powerful form of protest by Australian workers, effectively preventing the transport of military equipment to Indonesia.
• 🔧 Workers from various trades, including transport, engineering, and seafaring, united in their support for the Indonesian cause, showcasing the breadth of the labor movement's involvement.
• 🌐 International support for Indonesia's struggle was evident, with unions and workers from China, India, New Zealand, and Canada expressing solidarity.
• 🗣️ Leaders and representatives from various nations, including India, the Soviet Union, and the Philippines, voiced their opposition to the use of armed force against the Indonesian people.
• 🚧 The collective action of workers and unions led to a significant impact on Dutch shipping, with many ships unable to sail due to the refusal of labor, thereby supporting the Indonesian Republic's struggle for independence.

Q & A

What was the significance of the Esperance Bay ship in 1945?

The Esperance Bay was one of the first ships to make the journey between Australia and Indonesia after World War II, symbolizing the re-establishment of trade and diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Why were the Indonesians leaving Australia by the Esperance Bay?

The 1400 Indonesians were leaving Australia to return to Java, with a government assurance that they would not be landed at any port under Dutch control.

What was the Australian government's role in ensuring the safety of Indonesians on the Esperance Bay?

An Australian government official accompanied the Indonesians on the Esperance Bay to ensure that the guarantee of not landing them at Dutch-controlled ports was carried out.

How did the Australian trade unions show their support for Indonesia's independence movement?

The Australian trade unions presented a flag to the Indonesians as a symbol of their support in their fight for independence, and they pledged not to carry arms or supplies that could be used against the Indonesian people.

What was the impact of the Indonesians' strike on Dutch ships in Australian ports?

The strike led by the Indonesians, supported by Australian workers, resulted in ships being idle in Australian ports, effectively preventing Dutch attempts to reconquer their former colonies and suppress the Indonesian independence movement.

Why did the Australian Waterside Workers Federation decide to take direct action against Dutch ships?

The Australian Waterside Workers Federation took direct action because they were committed to the principles of the Atlantic Charter, which included support for freedom for all nations, and they refused to aid Dutch imperialism by loading ships with arms and supplies for Indonesia.

What role did international support play in the Australian labor movement's actions?

International support from various countries, including the United States, China, India, and New Zealand, was crucial in reinforcing the Australian labor movement's resolve to support Indonesia's struggle for independence.

How did the Indian crew on the Swanson ship contribute to the Indonesian independence cause?

The Indian crew on the Swanson ship refused to transport arms intended to suppress the Indonesian Republic, effectively stopping the ship and demonstrating solidarity with the Indonesian struggle.

What was the significance of the 'black ban' declared by the Australian labor movement?

The 'black ban' was a declaration by the Australian labor movement to refuse service to Dutch ships carrying arms or supplies that could be used against the Indonesian people, effectively crippling Dutch efforts to reconquer their former colonies.

How did the actions of the Australian labor movement influence the broader international community's stance on Indonesian independence?

The actions of the Australian labor movement inspired and were supported by international labor organizations and leaders, highlighting the global solidarity with the Indonesian independence movement and putting pressure on colonial powers to respect the right to self-determination.