Introduction

The status of Meghan Markle in royal engagements has been a subject of much debate and misinformation. While her significant presence in various public events continues to capture the interest of media and public alike, it is important to clarify several misconceptions surrounding her role and her connection to royal duties.

Myth #1: Meghan Markle is a Royal, and Hence Should Represent Royal Interests

One common misconception is that because Meghan Markle was the Duchess of Sussex, she retains a royal status. Contrary to this belief, she is not considered a member of the royal family and does not have the mandate to represent the monarch in royal engagements.

She is not a working royal. Her decision to leave the country may have been influenced by personal and financial considerations rather than a commitment to royal duties. Her royal title and status were more ceremonial and did not provide her with official royal authority. She did not express an interest in actually carrying out royal duties and therefore did not seek or receive assignments to represent the British monarchy.

Myth #2: Meghan Markle's Role as a Royal Was Not Recognized in the U.S.

Another popular myth is that Meghan Markle's royal status was not recognized in the U.S., where the couple has made a home for themselves. Clarifying this myth includes:

Harry, as a member of the British royal family, has continued to use his title as Prince. However, this is a personal choice and not a result of royal assignments from the Queen. The couple has chosen to build a new life in California, and their attendance at events is more personal than representative of royal duties. Monarch support is a critical aspect of royal engagements. Neither Meghan nor Harry retain this support in their current life outside the royal family.

Understanding Royal Engagements and Their Significance

A royal engagement, as the term suggests, is an official engagement that a royal member attends on behalf of the monarch. These engagements are carefully assigned by the Queen and recorded in various court circulars and media outlets. Key points to understand:

These events are tasks assigned to trusted senior royal members who represent the monarch's interests. When Meghan and Harry resigned from their royal duties, they also stopped representing the monarch at official events. Attending events as individuals does not equate to an official royal engagement.

Historical Context and Current Status

In the brief time Meghan and Harry were in the U.K. after their marriage, they were given tasks to perform, but they found these assignments not to their liking. This led to their decision to resign from those duties and move to Canada and then the U.S.

Progressively, they distanced themselves from royal responsibilities, ultimately separating from the royal family and moving to America. While they can attend events of their choosing, this is personal in nature, not a result of royal assignments. The term 'royal engagement' infers that the monarch is supporting the event and has the authority to do so.

Conclusion

In summary, Meghan Markle's status in royal engagements reflects a personal choice rather than a mandate from the monarch. The couple has relocated to build a new life, and their attendance at events is a personal decision, not an official royal engagement.

Key Takeaways

Neither Meghan nor Harry retain the official status and authority associated with royal engagements. The term 'royal engagement' implies official support, which they no longer have. Personal attendance at events does not equate to an official royal engagement.