The institution has come under fire for racial comments and insensitivity
We all knew the gravity of such a landmark moment in British history, but it’s fair to say no one could have quite predicted the fallout from Harry and Meghan’s interview with Oprah would cause.
Following the interview and public outcry, it is believed that the Royal Family are considering appointing a Royal Diversity Advisor/Chief. This person will look to improve representation and awareness across the various Royal houses. This comes after comments were allegedly made regarding “how dark the colour of [Archie’s] skin would be”.
Several outlets are dubbing it the role of ‘diversity tsar’; as wrapped up in tradition as the Royal Family may be, it’d be a surprise to see them go that far – or perhaps it’s post-ironic? That’s one way to bring them into the modern age. What can be confirmed so far though is that nothing has been confirmed. How very British.
According to a Royal source, “lots of measures are being considered. Certainly, the idea of someone to spearhead this work and look at diversity/inclusion across the three households is something that has to be considered”. The Royal Diversity Advisor would address surrounding issues such as race, gender, LGBTQ+ matters and more.
They also said that while it is is too early in the process for any “firm plans” to be announced, “this is an issue which has been taken very seriously across the royal households […] We are listening and learning, to get this right.”
Apparently, “policies, the procedures and programmes [have been] in place but we haven’t seen the progress we would like and accept more needs to be done”. Comments like this certainly point towards a distinction between the family and the institution, as Harry himself said to Oprah during the interview.
The spokesperson went on to say that “we can always improve. Therefore we are not afraid to look at new ways of approaching it. The work to do this has been underway for some time now and comes with the full support of the family.”
In terms of family members’ stances, Harry’s brother, Prince William, was quick to point out that he believed the Royals were “very much not a racist family”. No secret was made of strains on the relationship between the two brothers and with father, Prince Charles.
Moreover, in a statement made on behalf of the Queen, she stated that “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 undertones of aspersions do resonate in lines like “some recollections may vary”, she reassured that all allegations “are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately.”
She also insisted that “Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much-loved family members.”
It is worth mentioning that both Harry and Meghan spoke highly of the Queen herself and denied that any of the troubling comments were made by either his grandmother or the Duke of Edinburgh.
Nevertheless, there is clearly work to be done to bring ‘the firm’ into the 21st century – a Royal Diversity Advisor would be a good start. Race, gender and sexuality are all issues where people need educating and that means from the top down.
