Meghan Markle Just Gave a Moving Speech About Women's Suffrage
It’s no secret that Meghan Markle is a vocal champion for women’s rights. Long before she was named the Duchess of Sussex, she was an official Advocate for Political Participation and Leadership for United Nations Women. Since joining the royal family, she’s continued that mission through a handful of speaking engagements and charity work—and most recently, a powerful speech about women’s suffrage.
Markle’s speech occurred on the latest stop of her royal tour through Australia, Fiji, Tonga, and New Zealand. At a reception honoring the 125th anniversary of women’s suffrage in New Zealand, Markle was invited to speak about the legacy of feminism in the country and what it means to her personally.
PHOTO: MARTY MELVILLE
Markle arrived at the podium at the Government House in Wellington addressing New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy. First, she thanked the host nation for ratifying women’s right to vote 125 years ago. Then, her speech addressed the importance of women’s suffrage today. “Suffrage is not simply about the right to vote but also what that represents,” she said. “The basic and fundamental human right of being able to participate in the choices for your future and that of your community.”
She went on to emphasize the importance of equality—not just for women, but for all groups within a community. “In the words of your suffragette Kate Sheppard, ‘All that separates, whether race, class, creed, or sex, is inhuman and must be overcome,'” she said.
All in all, Markle’s speech had one moving takeaway: “Feminism is about fairness,” she said. Read her speech in full, below:
The speech marked another entry into Markle’s growing list of public speeches since becoming a Duchess, and another opportunity for her feminist beliefs to shine. Her address at the reception was the third speech she’s given on the royal tour. Previously, she spoke about the importance of education for women and girls at an event in Fiji.
“Everyone should be afforded the opportunity to receive the education they want, but more importantly the education they have the right to receive,” she said. “And for women and girls in developing countries, this is vital.”
Markle’s dedication to women’s rights and education are admirable. We stan a feminist duchess—and can’t wait for her next rousing speech.
Related Stories:
Meghan Markle Is Following Through on Her Mission to Empower Women
Watch Prince Harry Gush Over Meghan Markle After Her Speech Today