For Michelle Obama, the experiences of former Meghan Markle at Buckingham Palace – especially her version of how she encountered racism in the royal family – were not a shock.
In a Tuesday interview with NBC’s “Today” wise, the former first lady remembered what it was like to be in the public eye and offered words of hope to the British monarchy.
In a conversation with Oprah Winfrey earlier this month, Meghan and her husband, Prince Harry, discussed why they decided in 2020 to move away from royal life. pregnant with Archie, about the baby’s possible skin color.
Asked what went through her mind as Meghan described the experience, Obama said public service was a “bright, sharp, hot spotlight and that most people do not understand it – and neither do they.”
“The thing I always keep in mind,” she added, “is that none of this is about us. In the public service, it’s about the people we serve. ”
“What about when she talked about how she experienced racism?” Asked TV host Jenna Bush Hager.
“Race is not a new construction for people of color in this world,” Obama said. So it was not a complete surprise to hear her feelings.
“The thing I’m hoping for and thinking about is that it’s a family in the first place,” she added. “And I pray for forgiveness and healing for them so that they can use it as a learning moment for all of us.”
Obama is among a series of public figures who have supported Meghan following her bombing interview with Winfrey. Beyoncé posted a photo of herself and Meghan on her website, accompanied by a message that reads: “Thank you Meghan for your courage and leadership. We are all strengthened and inspired by you. ”
The palace, meanwhile, issued a statement a few days after Meghan and Harry’s Oprah interview. “The issues that are being raised in particular are concerned,” it said. “Some memories may vary, but they are taken very seriously and addressed by the family – privately.”