The Internet and the entire world exploded with reactions after Queen Elizabeth II of England’s sudden passing.
By | Gabrial Pollon
Many were full of grief and solemnity, fondly recalling her strongest moments and beloved ninety-six year presence on the earth. But that was far from the universal response, and many voices rose to point out the undermined historical shortcomings of the late ruler and the British monarchy itself.
While the death of anyone, including a monarch, is tragic, this event could be an opportunity for people to educate themselves on serious issues that have been ignored or avoided due to pro-royals propaganda – in the most respectful way, of course.
Many responses to the Queen’s death, however, were not respectful – especially on social media.
Looking at the comments on posts from Twitter and Instagram announcing her demise, the majority were hateful and considerably scathing. I scrolled through endless accusations of war crimes, colonialism, genocidal violence, religious persecution and white supremacy aimed at Elizabeth and the royal family.
While it was rather unsurprising—the British have colonized almost the entire world and must have much to answer, for I dove deep into the rabbit hole to find the facts behind the anger.
The truth of the matter is, no matter how hard Britain and its PR team tries to hide it, the country has a bloodstained and outrageous legacy of colonialism.
There were many significant and horrific acts committed against many suppressed countries, under the Queen’s approval.
These include the man made famine the British caused to gain power during the Nigerian Civil War, the “Malayan Emergency”, the brutal and bloody repression of the Mau Mau Rebellion in Kenya, the war in Yemen and Bloody Sunday in Ireland… to name a few.
Many people, especially of ethnic heritage, harbour immense rage towards the monarchy and British government for causing or allowing so much pain and suffering.
Professor Uju Anya, of Nigerian and Caribbean descent, voiced the opinion of many:
“If anyone expects me to express anything but disdain for the monarch who supervised a government that sponsored the genocide that massacred and displaced half my family and the consequences of which those alive today are still trying to overcome, you can keep wishing upon a star.”