On Sunday (March 7), Meghan Markle and Prince Harry sat down with Oprah Winfrey in a tell-all interview, and shared painful experiences they had while serving as active members of the British Royal Family.
Following the public revelations, tennis champion Serena Williams penned a message of support to her “selfless friend,” Meghan.
“Meghan Markle, my selfless friends, lives her life –– and leads by example –– with empathy and compassion. She teaches me everyday what it means to be truly noble. Her words illustrate the pain and cruelty she’s experienced,” Williams wrote in a post on Twitter and Instagram.
During the interview, Meghan and her husband accused the palace of blatant racism, including several conversations that were had before the birth of their son Archie, and how dark his skin might be, given Meghan’s bi-racial background.
Williams, who has been the subject of racist treatment in the media and tennis world, called out “tabloid journalism” in her post.
“I know first hand the sexism and racism institutions and the media use to vilify women and people of color to minimize us, to break us down and demonize us,” Williams said. “We must recognize our obligation to decry malicious, unfounded gossip and tabloid journalism.”
Williams also highlighted the seriousness of what Meghan shared during the interview, including the damage the experiences had on her mental health.
“The mental health consequences of systemic oppression and victimization are devastating, isolating and all too often lethal.”
In a caption on Instagram, Williams said she’s “so proud” of Meghan for “being so brave,” and acknowledged Prince Harry, too.
“You are so strong, both you and Harry,” Williams wrote. “I love you. I adore you.”
Williams ended her message with a wish that she and Meghan’s daughters will “live in a society that is driven by respect.”
Photo Credit: Getty Images