Michelle Obama ‘not surprised’ by Meghan Markle’s claims of racism in the Royal Family

"Race isn't a new construct in this world for people of colour"

Former US First Lady Michelle Obama said that she was not surprised by The Duchess of Sussex's claims of racism in the Royal household. During her famous interview with Oprah Winfrey, Meghan Markle said that there were concerns raised by a member of the Royal family about 'how dark' baby Archie's skin colour may be. She also told Oprah Winfrey that she "just didn't want to be alive anymore." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVZquShrznw&t=72s Michelle Obama responded to Meghan's comments on race during an interview with NBC News. She said: "Race isn't a new construct in this world for people of colour, and so it wasn't a complete surprise to hear her feelings. "The thing that I hope for, and the thing I think about, is that this, first and foremost, is a family, and I pray for forgiveness and healing for them so that they can use this as a teachable moment for us all." In a video posted by The Guardian, Oprah Winfrey said that she was also "surprised" by the discussion surrounding Archie's skin tone during an appearance on CBS This Morning. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6C3iZbdFco In an official statement released after the Sussex's interview with Oprah Winfrey, the palace said: "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." Oprah recently confirmed that Harry made her aware that the comments were not made by the Duke of Edinburgh or the Queen. The palace statement said that the Royals were "saddened" by the difficult experiences endured by the couple.