Meghan Markle wrapped her visit to The Justice Desk initiative in Cape Town’s Nyanga township by giving a brief speech to the people there. The Duchess of Sussex took a moment in her remarks to send a personal message: That she doesn’t consider herself just a royal family member on a royal tour of Africa, but that the ties are far deeper and more intimate.

“On one personal note, may I just say that while I am here with my husband as a member of the Royal Family, I want you to know that for me, I am here with you as a mother, as a wife, as a woman, as a woman of color, and as your sister,” Meghan said to cheers. “I am here with you, and I am here for you.”

According to the Telegraph, Meghan condemned violence against women in her two minute address and encouraged the people there to continue their work pushing for “respect, dignity, and equality.” Harry also spoke out against gender-based violence in his remarks, saying, “No man is born to cause harm to women this is learned behavior and a cycle that needs to be broken.”

Here, Meghan’s full speech via The Telegraph:

We are encouraged to hear your President take the next step towards preventing gender-based violence through education and necessary changes to reinforce the values of modern South Africa. I have to say, I feel incredibly humble to be in the presence of all of you as you stand firm in your core values of respect, dignity, and equality.

I read a quote a few weeks ago, and it resonated with me as I’ve been watching what’s been happening here and your efforts. Maya Angelou, the legendary poet and civil right activist, once said: “Each time a woman stands up for herself, without knowing it, possibly without claiming it, she stands up for all women.”

Now I know it’s not easy, and I know it must feel insurmountable at times. But your commitment to what is right gives all of us hope. Especially your brothers and sisters here in your community who need you to continue to shine your light brightly. Your commitment is inspiring, it is energizing, and it is extraordinary. You must keep going. You must know that what you’re doing not only matters, it is vital because you are vital.

And just on one personal note, may I just say that while I am here with my husband as a member of the Royal family, I want you to know that I am here as a mother, as a wife, as a woman, as a woman of color, and as your sister. I am here with you and I am here for you and thank you for showing us your Ubuntu [spirit of togetherness].”

The Duchess wore a “Justice” bracelet while visiting and was filmed and photographed dancing with the crowd.

Meghan and Harry were also presented with a South African Xhosa name for Archie, royal reporter Omid Scobie tweeted. “@TheJusticeDesk present Harry and Meghan with a South African Xhosa name for Archie—”Ntsika” which means pillar of strength. The name was chosen by the township’s Gogo’s (grandmother’s),” he wrote.

From: ELLE US

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