In September 2022, as the world mourned Queen Elizabeth II, a public interaction involving Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, at Windsor Castle became a focal point of controversy.
An apparent snub by a mourner during this event has sparked broad discussions about race and personal biases within the UK towards Meghan.
The Daily Mail revisited the incident noting that Meghan, along with Prince Harry, joined Prince William and Kate for their first public appearance together since their 2021 meeting at the unveiling of Princess Diana's statue.
The event at Windsor Castle aimed to honor the late Queen by engaging with the mourning public. This unity, however, surfaced amid underlying familial tensions highlighted by the Sussexes' strained relations with the royal household and their withdrawal from senior royal duties in 2020.
The incident that captured widespread media attention was a brief interaction—or lack thereof—between Meghan and a woman in the crowd.
Captured on video and shared extensively on social media platforms, the footage shows the woman deliberately avoiding eye contact with Meghan and then sharing a laugh with a friend afterward. This scene led to rampant speculation about the reasons behind the avoidance, ranging from personal dislike to racial motives.
Despite the specific incident, general reactions from the attendees at Windsor Castle were noted as warm towards Meghan. She was seen accepting flowers and embracing some of the mourners, indicative of a positive public reception by many.
Still, there were noted instances of less favorable interactions, including withdrawn hands and some individuals donning sunglasses as Meghan approached.
Social media discussions post-incident presented a divide in opinion. Some users suggested that the snub was an act of racism, while others argued that it reflected personal disapproval unrelated to race.
A notable comment from a social media user emphasized, "Why does it always have to be construed as racism? Absolutely nothing to do with race. People just don't like her." This statement underscores the complex layers of public perception surrounding Meghan.
Meghan's demeanor in response to the snub was composed and was broadly praised. However, her deviation from certain royal protocols during the event, which were not specified, sparked further debate. Critics and supporters alike scrutinized her every move, reflecting the ongoing challenge she faces in navigating life under such public and media scrutiny.
Coming into the royal family at 36, Meghan's acquaintance with royal protocols has been a subject of public and media debate. Royal family members traditionally learn these protocols at a young age, but Meghan's later integration posed challenges in adapting to these established norms.
Her struggles with these royal customs have been a recurring theme in discussions about her fit within the royal family structure.
Meghan's relationship with the royal family was further complicated by the revelations in Prince Harry's memoir, "Spare." In the book, Harry describes the intensity of a family meeting, stating he was "terrified" as his brother "screamed and shouted" at him.
This personal account by Harry adds another layer to the public's understanding of the complexities within the royal family dynamics regarding their relationships with Meghan.
Following Queen Elizabeth’s funeral, Meghan has not returned to the UK, citing concerns over her security and expressing a decision to refrain from participating in major royal events, including King Charles's Coronation.