Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Win Award For “Standing Up” Against Racism
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are hoping to to send forth "a tiny ripple of hope."
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are swimming in their own “current.” While accepting the 2022 Ripple of Hope award Tuesday night, the couple referenced an old Bobby Kennedy quote in which they hope to break “down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance” both in their new home country and across the pond.
On Dec. 6, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were recognized for their “unwavering commitment to social change” as well as their acts “to protect and advance equity, justice, and human rights,” per the awards’ website. They were honored alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Bill Russell, Michael Polsky, Brian Moynihan, and Frank Baker.
“The enduring dream of RFK of a just and peaceful world is so much more than a simple hope. It’s a direct ask, a specific challenge, a call to action, a test of individual courage and collective spirit,” Meghan said in her speech, as reported by Page Six.
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“And his appeal to humanity is as relevant today as it was in 1966 when he stood before the University of Cape Town, a place we’ve visited and hold close to our hearts. And he delivered a vision for the common good of society,” she continued.
Harry then chimed in: “Bobby Kennedy said, ‘Each time a man stands up for an ideal or acts to improve the lot of others or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope.’”
While Harry and Meghan were bestowed the honor for their outspoken fight against racism under the strains of British royalty, they were also commended for helping rebuild London’s Grenfell Tower following the destructive fire of 2017 and using “their platform to support Black Lives Matter.”
The couple was also praised for their work with veterans, Afghan refugees, and providing healthcare, education, and skills to children in Lesotho and Botswana. The Duke and Duchess have also lobbied for paid parental leave for U.S. families and worked to bridge the gap between gender disparities (a nod to Meghan’s podcast, Archetypes).
When Ukraine was invaded by Russia, Harry and Meghan contributed funds to local organizations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they raised money so those on the frontlines could be vaccinated.
As expected, fans can’t get over Megan’s ensemble for her special night of honor.
According to Vogue, Meghan’s custom long-sleeved gown was both a nod to her wedding dress and their humanitarian work. Both dresses had similar details and white is the symbol of peace. As for jewelry, Meghan donned an aquamarine ring that once belonged to Princess Diana, which she also wore on her wedding day to the late royal’s son.
Harry concluded their joint speech with: “And as we all face a complete and challenging time in the world, we choose the path of optimism of care for each other and our communities. We understand this honor, not about the culmination of a life’s work, but instead and in many ways for us, a beginning.”
