Lidda's Got a Message for Charles: "Sorry" Ain't Enough
You know how it is, you're at a fancy shindig, all dressed up, and suddenly, someone throws a curveball. That's basically what happened at King Charles' coronation. Senator Lidia Thorpe, a proud Indigenous woman, didn't play along with the "polite" act. Instead, she spoke truth to power, challenging the very foundation of the monarchy itself.
What Went Down?
It was a scene that sent shockwaves through the internet. During the coronation ceremony, cameras caught Senator Thorpe shouting, "This was a stolen land!" as King Charles III made his way down the aisle.
Thorpe, a member of the Dja Dja Wurrung and Gunnai people, wasn't shy about her frustration. This wasn't just about a crown, folks. It was about acknowledging the brutal history of colonialism in Australia, where Indigenous people were forcibly dispossessed of their land and subjected to unimaginable suffering. She wasn't buying Charles' "sorry" for the wrongs of the past – she wanted action, not empty words.
The Royal Response
The media went wild, some calling Thorpe disrespectful, others praising her bravery. Even in the face of backlash, she stood her ground, saying, "I was there to represent my people. I made a stand. I will continue to make a stand."
Charles himself, however, didn't seem too bothered. He simply smiled and continued on, like it was all just part of the show. This, some argue, is the problem. The monarchy, despite all the pomp and ceremony, doesn't seem to grasp the depth of the pain caused by its colonial past.
Thorpe's Stand
This wasn't just a publicity stunt. It was a powerful statement about Indigenous rights and a demand for real change. By speaking out so boldly, Thorpe gave voice to the voiceless, highlighting the ongoing struggle for recognition and justice. Her actions sparked a conversation, reminding everyone that the past is not just a history book, it's a living reality for many Indigenous people.
The Future
It's unlikely Thorpe's words will bring down the monarchy overnight. But they did something more important: they exposed the hypocrisy of a system built on stolen land. This, folks, is a conversation that will continue, and it's one that we all need to be part of. Whether you agree with Thorpe's methods or not, her message is clear: reconciliation isn't just about apologies, it's about action. And that's something we can all get behind, yeah?