During King Charles’ visit to Australia with Queen Camilla, an Indigenous Australian senator named Lidia Thorpe heckled the King at Parliament House in Canberra. Thorpe called for a treaty and accused the crown of stealing Aboriginal land, shouting that the King committed genocide against Indigenous people and demanding the return of stolen land and remains. Security escorted Thorpe out as she continued to protest, emphasizing that Charles was not her king.
Before the incident, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Peter Dutton welcomed the royal couple, thanking them for their support during good and difficult times. Albanese expressed gratitude for the King’s engagement on issues like climate change and reconciliation, highlighting the evolving nature of Australia’s relationship with the crown.
Thorpe had previously released a statement advocating for Australia to become a republic and establish a treaty with First Nations people. She argued that there was unfinished business related to the sovereignty of Indigenous land and the historical injustices committed by the crown. Thorpe emphasized the importance of considering treaty negotiations as a central part of the transition to an independent nation.
Despite the disruption caused by Thorpe’s protest, King Charles and Queen Camilla continued their visit to Australia, engaging with various Australian officials and addressing key issues facing the country. Thorpe’s actions drew attention to the ongoing calls for recognition and reconciliation with Indigenous Australians, highlighting the need for continued dialogue and action on Indigenous rights and historical injustices.
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