Senator Lidia Thorpe Escorted from Great Hall After Screaming at King Charles

 Senator Lidia Thorpe, known for her vocal advocacy on Indigenous rights and anti-monarchist stance, caused a dramatic scene at an event held in the Great Hall when she confronted King Charles III. The incident occurred during an official royal function, part of King Charles' Australian tour, where he and Queen Camilla were present alongside various dignitaries and guests.

A Fiery Protest

Thorpe, an Independent senator for Victoria, reportedly began shouting at King Charles as he made his way through the hall, accusing him of being "a coloniser" and expressing her opposition to the British monarchy’s historical role in the oppression of Indigenous peoples. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with Thorpe's passionate outburst cutting through the otherwise formal and controlled atmosphere of the event.

Security Intervention

As tensions rose, security swiftly intervened, and Thorpe was escorted out of the Great Hall by guards. Footage captured the senator continuing to shout while being removed, raising her voice about justice for Indigenous Australians and the monarchy's colonial legacy. The King remained composed throughout the incident, as attendees looked on in surprise.

Thorpe’s Anti-Monarchist Views

This is not the first time Senator Thorpe has openly expressed her opposition to the monarchy. A staunch advocate for Indigenous rights, Thorpe has long been critical of Australia’s ties to the British Crown, particularly its impact on First Nations people. Thorpe has also pushed for Australia to become a republic and has called for greater recognition of Indigenous sovereignty.

Responses to the Incident

While Thorpe’s actions drew both support and criticism, her protest has reignited public debate over Australia’s relationship with the monarchy, particularly in the context of Indigenous rights and the growing republican movement. Some praised her for standing up to what she sees as an enduring symbol of colonial oppression, while others condemned the disruption as inappropriate and disrespectful.

Thorpe later defended her actions, stating that she would continue to challenge the monarchy's role in Australian society, particularly with regard to its impact on Indigenous Australians.

The royal tour continues despite the interruption, with King Charles and Queen Camilla scheduled to attend further events in their visit to Australia.