By: Sarah Gomez, Staff Writer
Meghan and Harry were recently able to share their story in their first public interview. The recent interview has answered many questions regarding Meghan’s experience entering the royal family, but also led to many more questions surrounding race. In the interview conducted by Oprah, Meghan brought up a conversation held between her husband and his family that discussed what the color of their children's skin will look like. This is not Meghan’s first time having to deal with racism, however the racial issues faced by her children before birth was surprising to say in the least.
Meghan mentioned concerns regarding her first pregnancy and whether he would be protected or even given a title, based on the color of his skin. Their first-born child, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, currently does not have a title despite being seventh in line for the throne. Harry and Meghan even had to have conversations regarding the color of their child’s skin. The prince had conversations with the royal family that directly discussed the color that his children’s skin would be. Though it may seem like there must be a reason for this that doesn’t involve race, Meghan said there is “No explanation.” Prince Harry’s brother, William, also has three children of his own, each of which with their respective titles of prince and princess.
Meghan attempted to justify the lack of title for her son, claiming he would receive a title when his grandfather became king, something established by King George V in 1917. However, while Meghan was pregnant, the family discussed making a change to this. It seemed as if the royal family were going out of their way to make sure Harry and Meghan’s children have no title. Thought the biggest concern expressed by Meghan was the lack of protection that would be provided.
Meghan continued on the theme of racism discussing her own experiences with prejudice in the public and even within the institution. Not only have there been magazines that demonize her, sexualize and demean her, but she discussed not even being given the freedom to deny these claims made against her. These claims affected her mental health to a dangerous point. “I just didn’t want to be alive anymore,” Meghan shared. These were just some of the many issues that led Harry and Meghan to leave their positions as senior members of the royal family. Harry defended his wife and children, arguing that, “It wasn’t just about her, it’s about what she represents.”
The interview discusses many different aspects of the two and how their lives changed from when they began seeing each other, to marriage, and to eventually living on their own. In addition to this, we are also allowed insight into the changes and difficulties they have faced due to no longer having the privilege of being working royals. The full interview is available to watch for free on CBS.com.