If you’re shocked that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have officially distanced themselves from the royal family, it’s time to catch up. Since their relationship became public, the British media has relentlessly targeted Meghan with a troubling mix of racism, classism, and sexism—so much so that she had to take legal action against a news outlet for invading her privacy.
And who knows what she faced behind the palace walls? Now, just days before her much-anticipated interview with Oprah, the mixed-race Duchess is being accused of “bullying” former staff members. Seriously? Let’s just say it: leave Meghan Markle alone so she can relish her life with her husband and growing family.
It’s ironic because Meghan seems to be the one who has faced bullying throughout her time as the Duchess of Sussex. The racism and sexism aimed at her since her engagement are well-documented. However, since much of this abuse is subtle rather than overt, many people—especially in Britain—hesitate to label it as racist.
The media has scrutinized Meghan for everything, from her nail polish choices to how she cradles her baby bump. Some outlets have resorted to using the “Jezebel” stereotype, labeling her as “a tease,” “racy,” or “Harry’s Hottie,” while her mother was described as a “dreadlocked African-American lady from the wrong side of the tracks,” dismissing her impressive accomplishments. Let’s not forget the BBC host who compared baby Archie to a chimpanzee.
Still not convinced? When Meghan contributed to a charity cookbook, the media framed it as if she was solely responsible for it and even suggested it was linked to terrorism. In another instance, a simple meal of avocado toast and tea was criticized for contributing to “human rights abuses, drought, and murder.” And then there was the article titled “From Slaves To Royalty, Meghan Markle’s Upwardly Mobile Family,” which served as a painful reminder of her heritage.
Now, with accusations of bullying on the table, those familiar with the struggles of Black women in leadership will find this story all too relatable. If you’re not, please refrain from explaining how race doesn’t play a role in this situation.
The stereotype of the “angry Black woman” has long been weaponized against women of color. Being assertive or outspoken often leads to being labeled as “angry,” while ambition can be misconstrued as “overbearing.” Pointing out injustices or seeking change may lead to being called “demanding” or “uppity.” This stereotype perpetuates the notion that Black women, like Meghan, don’t belong in certain spaces, such as royalty, and thus have no right to voice their concerns.
I don’t know the details of the alleged bullying, but the descriptions surrounding the accusations against Meghan certainly echo the issues mentioned. She’s portrayed as “demanding,” and claims of “emotional cruelty” have surfaced, with some aides saying they felt “terrified” and “broken.” Even personal assistant Melissa Toubati reportedly was “driven to tears.”
The Daily Mail UK went as far as to compare the staff’s experiences to those of soldiers suffering from post-traumatic stress. Now, the Queen is ordering an investigation into these allegations, which seems a bit excessive to me as a Black woman.
It’s all too common for a white person to assume the victim role after a Black woman asserts herself. This phenomenon has a name: white fragility. Author Alex Brown aptly summed it up in a now-deleted tweet, stating that every Black woman has faced a situation where a white person accused her of being aggressive simply for voicing her opinion. I don’t give any weight to the bullying allegations against Meghan.
She is not the first woman of color accused of bullying, and she won’t be the last. While some might argue that she knew what she was signing up for when she married Prince Harry, no one should have to endure the kind of scrutiny Meghan has experienced. She deserves the chance to tell her side of the story. Once she does, I sincerely hope everyone will leave her alone.
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Summary
Meghan Markle has faced relentless scrutiny from the British media, marked by racism and sexism since her relationship with Prince Harry became public. Accusations of bullying have arisen just before her interview with Oprah, but many argue that these claims are rooted in harmful stereotypes that unfairly target women of color. The media’s treatment of Markle raises important questions about race, gender, and the challenges faced by Black women in positions of authority. Ultimately, she deserves space to share her story and to live her life peacefully.