It’s been a tough week for people of color around the UK, who gave out their thoughts on Meghan’s racism allegations with Oprah.
First things first, the Duchess of Sussex became the first female of color to identify with the British royal family. But according to Meghan, she had no choice but to leave the monarchy due to the actions of the British press and how they incited ‘racism’ against her.
In the same way, next came the defensiveness from some members of the media who attempted to gaslight the entire country.
Karen Gibson, who led the black Kingdom Choir into performing at Harry and Meghan’s wedding mentioned how it was just a huge shock for her.point 332 |
She couldn’t believe that it was true, especially rumors relating to Prince Charles.point 78 | The latter was the one who invited the Gospel choir to perform in the first place.point 145 | He also congratulated the group for their mega-success, post the wedding.point 208 | 1
Gibson speaks about how she became dubbed as the ‘Godmother of Gospel,’ thanks to the British Press. And that same night, one Black woman sat next to her on the bus and added, ‘We made it!’ That is when Gibson questioned, ‘Did we?’ Did the British tabloids accept Gospel? Gibson asked, ‘Are we still here in 2021,’ in the United Kingdom?
In response to her thoughts on Meghan’s explosive interview, Gibson and many other UK Blacks continue to question Meghan’s stance on how the British press forced her to quit the royal family.point 285 |
Moreover, Gibson spoke on how her words about Meghan Markle have undergone misrepresentation in the past.point 90 | And that is what led to her mistrust in UK journalism.point 134 | 1
On the other hand, Prince Harry went as far as accusing the British tabloids as toxic and bigoted. However, the country’s society of editors mentioned how racism didn’t play any part in covering Meghan Markle.
Many black Britons feel there is overt racism in the US but it’s not like that in the UK. Ever since George Floyd’s death, people are voicing their opinions in the UK and they’re getting heard, whether you like it or not.
But there are still those who believe that racism is deeply rooted in UK’s culture. Hence for them, this interview wasn’t a surprise. They believe it has helped expose it on a global level. Therefore, it will help spark great change- that is what many people of color hope for.