Lidia Thorpe is an Indigenous senator from Victoria, Australia, who has recently made headlines around the world for her daring confrontation with King Charles III during his visit to Australia. She is well-known for her strong support of Indigenous rights, and her actions have sparked renewed conversations about Australia’s colonial past and the ongoing challenges faced by the First Nations people. This post will explore who Lidia Thorpe is, her previous controversies, and the importance of her recent outburst in Parliament.
Lidia Thorpe is a key player in Australian politics, being the first Aboriginal senator from Victoria since 2020. She belongs to the Djab Wurrung Gunnai Gunditjmara nation and has committed her political career to fighting for the rights of Indigenous Australians. Her efforts have concentrated on important topics like treaty discussions, land rights, and the systemic discrimination that Indigenous communities experience.
Thorpe’s path in politics has had its fair share of difficulties. Her bold personality often puts her in the spotlight for controversial reasons, especially when it comes to her opinions about the British monarchy and its impact on Australia. In 2022, during her swearing-in ceremony, she called Queen Elizabeth II “the colonizing Her Majesty,” which caused a lot of media buzz and led her to take the oath again.
The reason behind Thorpe’s recent outburst at King Charles III is tied to the long history of suffering that Indigenous Australians have faced since British colonization started over 230 years ago. When King Charles visited Parliament House in Canberra and recognized the deep history of Australia’s First Nations people, Thorpe shouted, “You are not my king! Give us our land back!” This outcry reflected the feelings of many in Indigenous communities, who believe that while acknowledging past wrongs is important, it must be followed by real steps toward reparations and healing.
King Charles, in his speech, thanked everyone for sharing the stories and cultures of Australia’s First Nations people. However, people had different opinions about this. Some thought it was a positive step, while others believed it just reminded everyone of the ongoing issues from colonialism that still need to be addressed.
Thorpe’s actions show a rising movement among Indigenous Australians who are seeking recognition and justice. The Australian Monarchist League criticized her outburst, calling it “childish” and asking for her to step down. On the other hand, many activists see her actions as a brave protest against the lasting effects of colonialism that still affect Indigenous communities today.
Greens Senator Dorinda Cox expressed this idea clearly, saying that King Charles’s visit is a “visual reminder” of the pain caused by colonialism. She also urged him to actively support justice and truth-telling efforts for First Nations people.
Lidia Thorpe’s recent encounter with King Charles III highlights important issues about colonial history, identity, and justice in Australia. As discussions about making things right continue to grow in Australian society, Thorpe is an important advocate for those who have been overlooked for a long time.
When we think about these events, it’s important to reflect on how we can help fix past wrongs and support efforts that aim for fair treatment for everyone. Whether it’s through activism or having informed conversations at home or online, every little bit helps.