The royal visit to Australia took an unexpected turn when Senator Lidia Thorpe confronted King Charles III during a reception in Canberra.
After a speech by the King, the senator launched into a verbal attack, accusing the British Crown of committing genocide against Indigenous Australians.
Dressed in a traditional fur coat, Thorpe interrupted the event, claiming the monarchy still holds the remains of Aboriginal ancestors and demanding the return of land and recognition through a treaty.
Thorpe’s Heated Claims
Thorpe’s outburst included accusations that the Royal Family possesses “bones and skulls” of Aboriginal people, and she expressed frustration that there has been no formal treaty between Australia’s First Nations and the government.
Her shouts of “You are not my King” reverberated through the hall as security slowly escorted her away.
The King and Queen remained composed, with reports suggesting that they brushed off the incident with humor.
Mixed Reactions from Attendees
The reactions to Thorpe’s protest were divided. Some attendees, like Aunty Violet Sheridan, a Senior Ngunnawal Elder who had formally welcomed the King and Queen, expressed disappointment.
Sheridan felt that Thorpe’s actions were disrespectful and overshadowed what had otherwise been a dignified event.
In contrast, other politicians and dignitaries, including former Prime Minister Tony Abbott, criticized Thorpe’s actions, calling them un-Australian and unnecessary.
Protest and Public Opinion
Earlier in the day, Thorpe had clashed with police during a protest at the Australian War Memorial.
She joined a small group of Indigenous activists who demanded land rights and protested the colonial history that the monarchy represents.
While Thorpe’s actions at both events garnered attention, others saw them as political grandstanding, with critics accusing her of seeking publicity rather than meaningful dialogue.
The Royal Response
Despite the protests, King Charles and Queen Camilla remained focused on their schedule, participating in a series of public engagements.
They were said to have been deeply moved by the warm reception they received across the country.
While Buckingham Palace has refrained from officially commenting on Thorpe’s protest, sources close to the royals indicated that they were unbothered and appreciated the overall support they experienced during the visit.
Looking Ahead: Treaty or Division?
Thorpe’s demand for a treaty between First Nations people and the Australian government highlights ongoing tensions in the country’s political landscape.
She continues to advocate for the rights of Indigenous Australians, pushing for recognition and reparations.
However, her confrontational approach has divided public opinion, with some seeing her as a voice for marginalized groups and others viewing her tactics as inflammatory.
As the debate over Australia’s relationship with the monarchy continues, Thorpe’s protest has added fuel to the ongoing conversation about Indigenous rights and the future of the Commonwealth nation.
Mine Crypto. Earn $GOATS while it is free! Click Here!!
Telegram Airdrops: Crypto Giveaway
Join CryptoFiat Giveaway for free USDT giveaways and other opportunities!