2023-05-04 08:20:02
Sydney (AFP) – Indigenous leaders from former British colonies today urged King Charles III to swiftly pay for the “legacy of centuries of racism” and “genocide” committed by the royal family Apologize.
In a strongly worded letter that might derail preparations for Charles III’s coronation weekend, indigenous representatives from the 12 Commonwealth countries are also demanding financial compensation and the return of stolen cultural treasures.
The letter was signed by Aboriginal leaders in Australia and several Caribbean countries whose slaves were plundered by British colonists. The British colonists slaughtered the aborigines in Australia and drove them out of their homes.
Indigenous leaders say they are united to help their fellow countrymen “come out of centuries of racism, oppression, colonialism and slavery”.
Charles III has expanded his engagement with Aboriginal leaders in recent years as the monarchy faces a reckoning for its links to the slave trade and the violent legacy of the British Empire.
The letter asks Charles III to go further and offer a formal royal apology, although he has acknowledged that the royal family must “admit the mistakes that have shaped our country’s past”.
The first Aboriginal woman member of the Australian Federal Parliament and former Olympian Nova Peris is also one of the leaders who signed the letter.
Perris, a staunch critic of Australia’s relationship with the British royal family, said it was time to acknowledge the “horrific and far-reaching effects” of colonization and the “legacy of genocide” felt by many of his fellow Aboriginal people.
“It’s crucial for us to discuss and educate people regarding the truth behind colonization during coronation week. Dialogue starts with listening,” she said.
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