In a symbolic gesture of disapproval, Australian senators voted to censure an Indigenous colleague who yelled at King Charles III during a reception at Parliament House last month. The motion to censure independent Sen. Lidia Thorpe was carried with 46 votes in favor and 12 against.
Government leader in the Senate Penny Wong criticized Thorpe's outburst, describing it as an attempt to 'incite outrage and grievance.' Wong highlighted that such behavior is not conducive to the harmonious environment Australia aims to maintain.
During the incident, Thorpe launched a verbal tirade at Charles, expressing grievances over historical injustices and colonization. She demanded the return of Indigenous lands and artifacts, accusing the British crown of genocide against First Nations people.
Following her censure, Thorpe defiantly stated that she would repeat her actions if Charles were to visit Australia again. She emphasized her commitment to resisting colonization and reaffirmed her allegiance to the First Peoples as the true sovereigns of the land.
While the censure motion received majority support, Sen. Mehreen Faruqi from the Greens party opposed it, citing systemic issues of white privilege within the parliament. Faruqi argued that Thorpe's actions were a reflection of the historical truths regarding the British crown's treatment of Indigenous communities.
Indigenous people, who make up less than 4% of Australia's population, continue to face significant disadvantages and disparities. The incident involving Sen. Thorpe has sparked debates about the appropriate expression of grievances and the need to address historical injustices in a respectful and constructive manner.
