King Charles left stunned after Australian senator tells him where to stick his crown

The legacy of the British Empire continues to cast a long shadow over many former colonies, particularly Australia, where its history is intertwined with the dispossession and suffering of Indigenous peoples. Captain Cook’s arrival in 1770 marked the beginning of a painful colonial journey for the continent, leading to the establishment of a penal colony and the systemic oppression of Indigenous Australians.

A Recent Encounter

In a notable recent incident during King Charles’s visit to Australia, Lidia Thorpe, an independent senator from Victoria, confronted the monarch directly. Dressed strikingly, she passionately voiced her objections to his presence, emphasizing the painful history of colonization. Thorpe’s outburst was a powerful reminder of the unresolved grievances many Indigenous Australians feel regarding land rights, sovereignty, and the impacts of colonization.

Her statements were clear and pointed: “You committed genocide against our people. Give us our land back.” Thorpe demanded acknowledgment of the injustices faced by her people, including the call for a treaty, which remains a significant issue in discussions about reconciliation in Australia.

The Response and Context

Security quickly intervened, leading to her removal from the event, but not before she made her feelings abundantly clear. Thorpe’s protest highlights the growing urgency within Indigenous communities to address historical injustices and advocate for rights that have yet to be fully recognized.

In the wake of the confrontation, Thorpe reiterated her stance that the Crown’s historical actions have never been legitimately reconciled with Indigenous Australians. “As First Peoples, we never ceded our sovereignty over this land,” she stated, emphasizing the need for a treaty and recognition of Aboriginal rights in any future discussions about Australia’s political structure.

Despite Thorpe’s bold actions, Australia faces significant challenges in redefining its relationship with the monarchy. A 1999 referendum resulted in a majority of Australians choosing to maintain the monarchy, and the current government has indicated that a second referendum on this issue is not a priority. However, with the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, there may be a shift in public sentiment that could lead to renewed discussions about Australia’s constitutional future.

While some view King Charles as a figurehead of a painful colonial past, others remain loyal to the monarchy. The complexities of this situation underscore the need for continued dialogue around reconciliation and justice for Indigenous Australians. Thorpe’s passionate protest serves as a reminder that the journey toward recognizing and addressing historical grievances is far from over, and there are many who are determined to keep this conversation alive.

As Australia navigates its path forward, the voices of Indigenous Australians, like Lidia Thorpe, will remain critical in shaping the nation’s identity and its approach to historical injustices.