The news of Meghan Markle’s engagement to Prince Harry has been speculated for quite some time. Yet what may not have been suspected is the rash of racist remarks that have poured out online.
Clarence House, a royal residence in London, announced Monday, Nov. 27 that the “Suits” actress and Prince William’s younger brother will marry in spring 2018. The couple became engaged earlier this month following heavy speculation in recent months.
The Prince of Wales is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince Harry to Ms. Meghan Markle. pic.twitter.com/zdaHR4mcY6
— Clarence House (@ClarenceHouse) November 27, 2017
While some have rejoiced at a 21st century Black princess joining the royal family (the first being Queen Charlotte in the 1700s) …
We got us a Black princess ya'll. You really can't tell me a damn thing for the rest of the day because it won't matter. Shout out to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Their wedding will be my Super Bowl. pic.twitter.com/WmBnGm5AuZ
— GirlTyler (@sheistyler) November 27, 2017
Black American Princess.
Palace about to be lit. #PrinceHarry #MeghanMarkle pic.twitter.com/xbjvaA3pPz— Angelica Pickles (@LifeRiiImagined) November 27, 2017
https://twitter.com/AwkwardlyReeRee/status/935131243208945664
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s Relationship Timeline
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… racist comments have crept up, too.
Yet there are plenty of Black women lining up to defend Markle.
https://twitter.com/TorriYatesOrr/status/935122940399706114
You know pic.twitter.com/sJIehAaK3Z
— Shadee (@veryshady) November 27, 2017
Unfortunately, Markle, who wrote a 2015 op-ed about her racial identity, is used to being defended against racist detractors. In 2016, Prince Harry was forced to issue a statement calling for media to stop its racial “wave of abuse” against his then-girlfriend.
And while there has been some racist history splattered throughout the royal line — in June, a British historian detailed racist ideas Queen Elizabeth held — the present-day royal family seems to be welcoming Markle with open arms.
The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh are delighted for the couple and wish them every happiness. https://t.co/aAJ23uSbao
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) November 27, 2017
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge said of the engagement:
'We are very excited for Harry and Meghan. It has been wonderful getting to
know Meghan and to see how happy she and Harry are together.'— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) November 27, 2017