Meghan Markle and Prince Harry were honored as ‘Humanitarians of the Year’ at a high-profile New York gala last night, an event that sharply contrasted with a rare joint engagement undertaken by King Charles and Prince William in London.
The competing appearances, separated by 3,500 miles, have further fueled speculation about the deep rift within the Royal Family and may “pour cold water on hopes of peace talks” between the warring Windsors.
The New York Gala and Acceptance Speech
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were celebrated at the Project Healthy Minds gala on Thursday night. Meghan used her acceptance speech to share concerns about their children, Archie (six) and Lilibet (four), growing up in a digital environment.
“Our children, Archie and Lili, are just six and four years old. Luckily still too young for social media, but we know that day is coming,” Meghan stated. “Like so many parents, we think constantly about how to embrace technology’s benefits, while safeguarding against its dangers. That hopeful intention of separation is rapidly becoming impossible.”
Meghan was also praised as “a mother, wife, entrepreneur, and philanthropist” during the event. Harry’s work with mental health companies and his controversial 2021 memoir, Spare, were cited among his achievements. Harry also spoke, emphasizing the need to protect children in the digital age: “This is a pivotal moment in our collective mission to protect children and support families in a digital age.”
The couple’s message was notably similar to warnings issued earlier in the day by the Princess of Wales in London, who cautioned that excessive screen time can harm family life.
Royal United Front in London
Hours before the New York gala, King Charles and Prince William attended a rare joint public engagement at the Natural History Museum in London, brought together by their shared passion for the environment. A video from the event captured a moment of warmth, showing William putting his hand on Charles’ shoulder in greeting.
Earlier this morning, an emotional video also emerged showing Prince William breaking down in tears while discussing the devastating impact of suicide with a mother who had lost both her husband and son.
‘Project Thaw’ and Reconciliation Rumors
Amidst the contrasting events, reports suggest the Sussexes are planning a secret reconciliation with the Royal Family, dubbed ‘Project Thaw.’ A friend of the couple predicted that “Meghan will return to Britain before the year is out” and could come bearing “humble pie.” However, claims persist that William is open to meeting Harry but is unwilling to do so if Meghan is present.
The Project Healthy Minds award, which recognized Harry and Meghan, has only been bestowed once before, last year, to Jeff Yabuki and his wife Gail for their mental health commitment. The Sussexes began their work in the online sphere in 2020, consulting with Stanford University experts on social media’s impact on young people.
Source: Sky News
