In a dramatic confrontation during King Charles’ visit to Australia’s Parliament House in Canberra, Senator Lidia Thorpe interrupted the monarch’s address by loudly protesting the British monarchy’s role in colonization. The senator, an Aboriginal woman from the state of Victoria, shouted, “This is not your land. You are not my King,” as she strode up the aisle wearing traditional Indigenous clothing.
Thorpe, who has been a vocal advocate for Indigenous rights, demanded the return of Aboriginal lands and accused the British monarchy of genocide. “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!” she exclaimed.
Security personnel intervened, preventing Thorpe from approaching the King, and escorted her out of the chamber.
The outburst occurred shortly after King Charles had addressed politicians and dignitaries, where he acknowledged Australia’s Indigenous heritage. While the King expressed his appreciation for the “Welcome to Country” ceremony performed earlier in the day by Ngunnawal Elder Aunty Serena Williams, he stopped short of issuing the apology Indigenous leaders had hoped for.
In his speech, the King remarked, “In my many visits to Australia, I have witnessed the courage and hope that have guided the nation’s long and sometimes difficult journey towards reconciliation.” However, he did not directly address calls for a formal apology for the historical wrongs of colonialism.
Senator Thorpe’s protest highlights ongoing tensions over Australia’s colonial past and the role of the monarchy in addressing Indigenous grievances.
