Lidia Thorpe Confronts King Charles: “You Are Not My King”
Lidia Thorpe, an Indigenous senator from Australia, recently made headlines for her bold confrontation with King Charles III during his visit to Australia. Addressing the monarch at Australia’s Parliament House, Thorpe declared, “You are not my king,” underscoring her stance against the British monarchy and its historical impact on Indigenous peoples.
Who is Lidia Thorpe?
Elected as a senator for Victoria in 2020, Lidia Thorpe is the first Aboriginal senator from that state. At 51, she is a prominent activist for Indigenous rights, advocating for the interests of the black community and raising awareness about various social issues. Thorpe has also served as the chair of Victoria’s NAIDOC (National Aborigines and Islanders Observance Committee) committee, which celebrates the history and culture of Indigenous Australians.
Her activism often focuses on critical topics, including the justice system, prison reform, and environmental issues. Notably, during her swearing-in ceremony in October 2020, she raised her fist in a powerful “black power” salute, symbolizing solidarity with the Indigenous community.
Recent Confrontation with King Charles III
The recent confrontation occurred shortly after King Charles delivered a speech at Parliament House. Thorpe seized the opportunity to express her discontent with the monarchy’s historical role, stating, “You committed genocide against our people. Give us our land back. Give us what you stole from us—our bones, our skulls, our babies, our people. You destroyed our land. Give us a treaty. We want a treaty.”
Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott, present at the event, criticized Thorpe’s remarks as “unfortunate political exhibitionism,” highlighting the polarized views surrounding her activism.
Previous Controversies
Lidia Thorpe has a history of creating controversies through her firm anti-monarchy stance. In a past incident, she referred to the late Queen Elizabeth II as “the colonizing Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II” during her oath of office, sparking backlash and prompting her to repeat the oath with the official wording.
Additionally, Thorpe has been vocal in other protests, including a notable clash against an anti-trans rally led by British activist Kellie-Jay Keen. This protest saw Thorpe temporarily blocking the rally, resulting in significant altercations at the scene.
Continued Activism
Thorpe’s confrontations and outspoken nature highlight ongoing tensions regarding the relationship between Indigenous Australians and the British monarchy. Her calls for acknowledgment, reparations, and a treaty resonate with many Indigenous activists who seek justice for historical injustices.
As Australia continues to grapple with its colonial past and the implications for its Indigenous population, Lidia Thorpe remains a prominent figure advocating for change. Her actions reflect a broader movement demanding recognition and reparative measures for Indigenous peoples across the nation.
