Meghan Markle made a return visit to Justice for Girls (JFG), a Vancouver charity that supports teenage girls in poverty, on Monday.
This marked her second visit to JFG in three years, with the organization praising her longstanding advocacy for the rights of girls and women.
Founded in 1999, JFG has held a special status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council since 2009.
Markle’s initial visit took place in January 2020, and although she hadn’t actively contributed since then, she seized the opportunity for a photo op during her recent stay in Vancouver with Prince Harry.
During her previous visit, the Duchess of Sussex was gifted a gold and diamond whale-tin pendant by local jeweler Holly Bartlett, a member of the Heisler tribe.
This gesture was well-received, as Justice for Girls co-director Zoe Craig Sparrow noted, “We all felt at ease, and I think that was a testament to the Duchess.”
However, it seems that Markle chose not to wear the custom-made necklace during her 2023 visit.
While she showcased her other jewelry, this decision has raised suspicions that she may have sold or disregarded the pendant.
Critics argue that as a self-proclaimed feminist, Markle proudly displays jewelry given to her by the men she has married, yet fails to acknowledge the indigenous jeweler and the symbolic significance of the pendant.
This behavior is seen as an insult to both the artist and the girls supported by Justice for Girls.
Furthermore, it raises concerns about how she will interact with indigenous partners at future events, such as the Invictus Games in 2025.
Interestingly, Markle chooses not to flaunt her engagement ring but instead showcases a diamond pinky ring.
Had Markle worked closely with the late Queen and the royal staff, she would have learned the power of wearing jewelry, clothing, and accessories sourced from the places she visits.
The late Queen, Prince Philip, their children, spouses, and even grandchildren understood the diplomatic significance of such gestures.
A simple brooch or pair of earrings can convey a powerful message and set the tone for long-lasting relationships.
However, Markle’s focus appears to be solely on herself, disregarding the potential impact of her choices.
Critics argue that Markle’s visit to Justice for Girls was merely a superficial gesture, lacking a genuine commitment to the organization’s cause.
She has not been actively involved behind the scenes or undertaken related work in the US, making her intermittent appearances at JFG seem insincere.
Instead of engaging in meaningful work, she prioritizes photo opportunities and forces those around her to hug and take pictures.
This behavior mirrors her initial visit, where she wasn’t invited but decided to show up to reinforce the narrative that she and Prince Harry were still part of the royal family, albeit independently.
In conclusion, Meghan Markle’s rejection of the pendant gifted by Justice for Girls raises questions about her commitment to the causes she supports.
Her failure to wear the necklace and her preference for displaying other jewelry given by her husbands undermines the significance of the indigenous jeweler’s work and the symbolic meaning behind the pendant.