The Royal Family has quietly erased from their official website a heartfelt statement issued by Prince Harry in 2016, addressing the barrage of racist and sexist remarks hurled at his now-wife, Meghan Markle, following the public revelation of their relationship. This statement, released by Harry's spokesperson in November of that year, came as a response to the relentless abuse and harassment Meghan faced from both the British press and social media trolls. It marked the first official acknowledgment of their romantic tie.
In his statement, Harry expressed deep concern for Meghan's safety, condemning the racial undertones and overt sexism and racism expressed in media commentaries and social media posts. He also revealed the private struggles Meghan had endured due to the media frenzy surrounding their romance, including legal battles to prevent the publication of defamatory stories, bribes offered to her ex-partners by the press, and illegal attempts by reporters and photographers to gain access to her home.
"Prince Harry is deeply troubled by the safety of Ms. Markle and is profoundly disappointed that he has been unable to shield her from harm," read the statement.
The decision to speak out was met with surprise by many, as royal press strategy typically advises silence in such matters. However, Harry, now 39, chose to make a "course correction" quickly, as recounted in his memoir, Spare. This move angered his father, King Charles, and his brother, Prince William, who had never issued similar statements in defense of their partners.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, now 42, resigned their senior royal duties in January 2020, initially intending to divide their time between North America and the UK. They expressed a desire to become financially independent while supporting the Queen. However, in February 2021, the couple confirmed that they would not return as working members of the Royal Family. They currently reside in California with their two children, celebrating their sixth wedding anniversary this month amidst this significant change in their lives.
