What's happened
During King Charles's visit to Australia, Indigenous Senator Lidia Thorpe confronted him in Parliament, accusing the monarchy of genocide and demanding a treaty for First Nations people. This incident highlights ongoing tensions regarding Australia's colonial history and the lack of treaties with Indigenous Australians.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Independent reported that Lidia Thorpe confronted King Charles, stating, 'You committed genocide against our people. Give us our land back.' This sentiment was echoed across various outlets, highlighting the ongoing struggle for Indigenous rights in Australia. The New York Times noted that Thorpe's protest was a significant interruption during the King's speech, emphasizing her role as a prominent activist. Meanwhile, the Guardian described the event as a stark reminder of Australia's colonial legacy, with Thorpe's demands for a treaty underscoring the unresolved issues between Indigenous Australians and the monarchy.
How we got here
King Charles's visit to Australia marks his first as monarch, amidst a backdrop of increasing calls for recognition of Indigenous rights and sovereignty. Senator Lidia Thorpe has been a vocal advocate for a treaty between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians, reflecting broader societal debates about Australia's colonial past.
Common question
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What sparked protests during King Charles' visit to Australia?
King Charles' recent visit to Australia has ignited significant protests, particularly from Indigenous communities. The visit has raised questions about the monarchy's historical role in colonialism and the ongoing struggles for Indigenous rights. Below, we explore the key issues raised during the protests and their implications for Australia's future.
More on these topics
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Australia, officially known as the Commonwealth of Australia, is a sovereign country comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands.
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Charles, Prince of Wales is the heir apparent to the British throne as the eldest child of Queen Elizabeth II. He has been Duke of Cornwall and Duke of Rothesay since 1952, and he is the oldest and longest-serving heir apparent in British history.
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The Commonwealth of Nations, generally known simply as the Commonwealth, is a political association of 54 member states, nearly all former territories of the British Empire.
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Elizabeth II is the queen of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms. She was born in London as the first child of the Duke and Duchess of York, later King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, and she was educated privately at home.
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Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, GCVO, CSM, PC is a member of the British royal family. She is the second wife of Charles, Prince of Wales, heir apparent to the British throne.
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Buckingham Palace is the London residence and administrative headquarters of the monarch of the United Kingdom. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is often at the centre of state occasions and royal hospitality.
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Canberra
is the capital city of Australia. Founded following the federation of the colonies of Australia as the seat of government for the new nation, it is Australia's largest inland city and the eighth-largest city overall.