Senator Thorpe’s heckling during the royal visit sparks criticism from politicians and Indigenous leaders

Senator Lidia Thorpe has come under fierce criticism for her disruptive protest during King Charles III’s visit to Canberra, where she interrupted the proceedings by accusing the monarch of genocide against Indigenous peoples and demanding treaty and land reparations. Thorpe’s actions have elicited strong reactions from various political figures and Indigenous leaders, who labelled her approach as “disrespectful.”

The incident unfolded as the King addressed the audience at the Great Hall of Parliament House. Once the speeches concluded, Thorpe shouted, “You committed genocide against our people; give us our land back; give us back what you stole from us… we want a treaty in this country.” Security quickly escorted her from the hall as she continued to vocalise her grievances.

In the wake of the protest, Thorpe defended her actions, stating that her repeated attempts to reach out to the monarchy had gone unacknowledged. As a Gunnai, Gunditjmara, and Djab Wurrung Indigenous woman, Thorpe expressed a deep sense of frustration over the ongoing neglect of Indigenous issues, asserting that the only recourse left was to confront the King directly.

However, her display was met with a swift backlash. Former senator Nova Peris, the first Aboriginal woman elected to federal parliament, expressed her disappointment, describing Thorpe’s protest as “both embarrassing and disrespectful to our nation and the Royal Family.” Peris emphasised that true reconciliation requires respectful dialogue, not actions that detract from the progress being made.

Opposition leader Peter Dutton also condemned Thorpe’s actions, stating, “Sometimes people make it all about themselves, and I think that’s what yesterday was.” Labor senator Murray Watt echoed this sentiment, questioning the effectiveness of her protest: “I don’t think it worked. I don’t think it got the message through to anyone in the room.”

Housing minister Clare O’Neil further highlighted that senators have various avenues to express their views, asserting that Thorpe’s approach was inappropriate and detracted from a respectful welcome extended to the King by Indigenous leader Aunty Violet Sheridan.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer weighed in on the matter, defending King Charles as an “incredible ambassador” and praising his public service, especially given his recent health challenges.

Thorpe’s protest is part of a broader pattern of demonstrations against the royal visit, which has seen large crowds in Sydney rallying behind calls to “decolonise.” The events highlight ongoing tensions surrounding Indigenous rights and recognition within Australia, as well as the complexities of royal visits in a post-colonial context.

As discussions continue, the incident underscores the challenges faced in the pursuit of reconciliation and the differing views on how best to advocate for Indigenous rights within the framework of Australian politics.