King Charles III’s speech in Australia was abruptly interrupted when Indigenous Senator Lidia Thorpe dramatically declared, “You are not our King” and “This is not your land.” As Thorpe was removed by security from Parliament’s Great Hall, she shouted about the historical suffering of Indigenous people due to colonisation. The incident, captured on video, sparked a significant moment of tension, with Thorpe also clashing with police outside the Australian War Memorial, yelling, “You’re not my King.”
Prime Minister Albanese, seated beside the King during the outburst, was seen leaning over to speak with Charles, reportedly smiling at the unexpected turn of events. Thorpe’s protest highlights the ongoing debate over Indigenous sovereignty in Australia and the colonial legacy of the monarchy. This outburst wasn’t her first; she has been vocal about demanding apologies and reparations from the monarchy for colonial actions.
King Charles and Queen Camilla, on a brief public visit, met with well-wishers outside Parliament House in Canberra before leaving in their cars. Although brief, the visit was dominated by Thorpe’s statement, reigniting discussions on Australia’s ties to the monarchy and Indigenous rights. The King remained composed, maintaining his royal protocol in the face of the protest, as this incident became a focal point of his trip.
Senator Thorpe’s protest reflects her ongoing campaign for Indigenous recognition and truth-telling, aligning with her broader political stance for sovereignty and justice for First Nations people. Her public defiance continues to push these critical issues into the national spotlight.
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