TWICC: The Royal Family

By now, most of you have probably seen Oprah’s interview with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry. It was a surprisingly raw look into Meghan’s experience entering the royal family and all that she endured as the first person of color to join the family. But the most shocking revelation of all was that a member of the family questioned Prince Harry about “how dark” his first child could potentially be.

The monarchy is obviously an incredibly white and colonial institution, but WHAT?! Just look at Oprah’s face!

Archie was the first great-grandchild of the Queen to not receive a royal title and subsequently not receive the protection that comes with that title. It was a break in protocol, that according to Meghan, came with absolutely no explanation.

Queen Elizabeth finally released a statement addressing the interview:

"The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan.

"The issues raised, particularly that of race, are concerning. While some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately.

"Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much loved family members."

With the interview lasting nearly two hours and so many shocking revelations being brought to light, it is incredibly disappointing to see such a half-assed response. Reductionist language like “saddened” and “concerning” are very revealing of the actual feelings behind this statement.

The family isn’t sad, they’re pissed.

There is going to have to be a reckoning with the monarchy and its history of racism. The monarchy survives by providing an “ideal” family to its citizens. Without public support, it cannot continue.

So many institutions have been rocked to their core and forced to deal with their racist histories. The royal family has a lot to sift through.

Harry and Meghan decided to leave rather than continue the abuse. Will the rest of England follow?