Meghan Markle and Prince Harry paid tribute to Desmond Tutu by sharing an emotional message. They are showing honor after the death of this human rights activist and anti-apartheid hero of South Africa. The civil rights icon Desmond Tutu has died on Sunday at the age of 90.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex said in a statement, “Archbishop Tutu will be remembered for his optimism, his moral clarity, and his joyful spirit. He was an icon for racial justice and beloved across the world. It was only two years ago that he held our son, Archie, while we were in South Africa – ‘Arch and The Arch’ he had joked, his infectious laughter ringing through the room, relaxing anyone in his presence. He remained a friend and will be sorely missed by all.”
During the royal tour in South Africa, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex met the Nobel Peace Prize winner and his daughter in 2019. At that time, their young son Archie was only 5 months old. It was Archie’s first official public engagement.
It was a lively laughter-filled chat with Archbishop Tutu and Thandeka. After the meeting, they posted several clips of Archie and Archbishop Tutu. They captioned the photo, “Arch meets Archie!”
After the death of Tutu, Queen Elizabeth also shared a statement. It stated, “I am joined by the whole Royal Family in being deeply saddened by the news of the death of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, a man who tirelessly championed human rights in South Africa and across the world.”
The statement also mentioned, “I remember with fondness my meetings with him and his great warmth and humor. Archbishop Tutu’s loss will be felt by the people of South Africa, and by so many people in Great Britain, Northern Ireland, and across the Commonwealth, where he was held in such high affection and esteem.”