Indigenous leaders name on King Charles III to apologize and compensate for colonization

Indigenous leaders of 12 Commonwealth nations have signed a letter calling on King Charles III to apologise for the “horrific impacts” of colonisation and implement a compensation mechanism for indigenous peoples of the Commonwealth.

The letter, titled “Apology, Reparation, and Repatriation of Artefacts and Stays,” was issued just a few days earlier than the monarch’s coronation scheduled for May 6.

The letter also demanded the return of all cultural treasures and artifacts to the countries of their origin, as well as the repatriation of all remains currently held in UK museums and institutions.

The leaders also urged the UK Royal Family to adopt the renunciation of the “Doctrine of Discovery,” following in Pope Francis’ footsteps. Buckingham Palace and the UK government have not yet responded to the letter. The Indigenous leaders want King Charles III to acknowledge the horrific impacts on and legacy of genocide and colonisation of the indigenous and enslaved peoples, as well as commit to discussions about reparations for the oppression of indigenous peoples.