You Are Not My King: A Bold Protest by Indigenous Senator
In Canberra, the presence of King Charles III at a parliamentary reception sparked significant tension when Indigenous Australian Senator Lidia Thorpe confronted him. As the royal couple entered the hall, Thorpe passionately yelled, “You are not my king!” This moment was not merely a reaction to the British monarchy but a fierce statement against the historical injustices inflicted by British colonizers on Australia’s Indigenous peoples. She reminded everyone that their land had been stolen and emphasized the need to recognize the painful legacy of genocide, which included the bones and skulls of her ancestors.
Thorpe’s protest action reflects a broader struggle for justice, as she affirms the ongoing demand for a treaty and reparations for Indigenous communities. Her powerful words challenged not just Charles but also Prime Minister Albanese and security officials present, urging them to address the dark history that continues to affect the people of Australia. The high-profile nature of this event, with police monitoring and a backdrop of past protests like those at the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, underscores the urgency of her message. This sentiment resonates deeply with many Australians, reminding them of the continued impact of colonization and the importance of acknowledging and respecting Indigenous rights.
A Powerful Message in Parliament
During an official visit to Australia, an unexpected moment unfolded in Parliament when Lidia Thorpe, an Aboriginal lawmaker, passionately shouted at King Charles and Queen Camilla. As Charles prepared to give his speech in the Great Hall, Thorpe stood up and called out, “Not my King!” Her powerful words echoed throughout the chamber, reminding everyone that the land was stolen from Indigenous peoples and is not rightfully theirs. This incident highlighted the ongoing struggle for recognition and justice regarding the genocide faced by Aboriginal communities, which included the loss of their bones, skulls, and even babies.
Thorpe’s outburst resonated deeply, as she emphasized that Australia needs to establish a treaty to honor the history and rights of its first peoples. The event captured significant attention, with videos circulating online, prompting discussions about the monarchy’s relevance in contemporary Australia. Many applauded Thorpe’s bravery, believing her actions speak for those who feel overlooked and oppressed in their own country. As security officials escorted her away from the incident, the stark reality of colonization and its impact on Indigenous lives remained a pressing issue for many Australians.
The Call for Change in Australia
Australia is on a long and difficult journey toward reconciliation with its Indigenous peoples. This journey requires courage and hope, especially as protests and discussions about the nation’s identity continue. When King Charles visited Australia following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth, on September 8, 2022, many observers focused keenly on the reaction to his role as the country’s head of state. The visit reignited conversations about the republican movement and whether Australia should reassess its status as a constitutional monarchy.
During his visit, Charles reaffirmed the monarchy’s longstanding position, which many see as reinforcing outdated ties to the United Kingdom. While some Australians have expressed a relaxed attitude toward this inherited status, others believe it is time for a change. Aides accompanying the King guided him through various events, where the decision to meet with local leaders and acknowledge their history was highlighted. As Australia continues to grapple with its identity, the need for dialogue about its future remains crucial, urging the nation to reflect on its past and consider a more inclusive direction.
The Push for an Australian Republic
The Australian Republic Movement (ARM) has taken a significant step by sending a letter to Charles, the King of the United Kingdom, through his private secretary. The letter emphasizes that Australia should become a republic and that the Australian public deserves the right to decide on this important matter. A recent poll published in the Sydney Sunday Telegraph showed that support for a republic has waned, with only 33% favoring the idea, a decline from 39.4%, the figure seen during the last referendum on the issue in 1999. This decline comes amidst growing calls for change as Australia reflects on its national identity.
During the fourth day of their visit to Australia, King Charles and Queen Camilla were welcomed at the Parliament building, where the sounds of a didgeridoo paid tribute to Indigenous culture. Amidst their schedule, they visited the Australian War Memorial and met a charming alpaca wearing a crown, delighting members of the crowd. Charles also engaged with firefighters at the CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) to discuss their efforts against bushfires that have devastated millions of hectares of Australian land this year. As the couple met with waiting crowds, the disruption in Parliament over the republic issue lingered in the background, reminding everyone that the journey toward potential change is far from over.
