During Pride Month, Prince William engaged with activists from the LGBTQ+ community, reinforcing the royal family’s commitment to inclusivity and support for marginalized individuals. His recent visit to the Royal Vauxhall Tavern underlined the importance of addressing bullying over sexuality. It illustrated the work’s need for us to really stand in solidarity with those impacted.
Based on those engagements, Prince William focused on the message that no one should be bullied due to their sexual orientation. He commended the courage of young gay, lesbian, and transgender activists. Most importantly, they openly share their experiences and powerfully advocate for equality.
“The young gay, lesbian and transgender individuals I met through Attitude are truly brave to speak out and to give hope to people who are going through terrible bullying right now. Their sense of strength and optimism should give us all encouragement to stand up to bullying wherever we see it.” – Prince William
Honoring Princess Diana’s Legacy
The royal family’s ties to the LGBTQ+ community run deep, as far back as the empathetic gestures of Princess Diana. In 1987, she gained national attention for being the first celebrity to visit people with HIV. She fearlessly shook hands barefisted, mirroring her commitment to destigmatizing the illness.
Prince William’s commitment to fight bullying is an extension of his mother’s legacy. The Diana Award carries on her legacy by ensuring that young people who are bullied for being themselves have support. This symbolism further illustrates the royal family’s long history of promoting acceptance and understanding.
“HIV does not make people dangerous to know. You can shake their hands and give them a hug. Heaven knows they need it. What’s more, you can share their homes, their workplaces, and their playgrounds and toys.” – Princess Diana
King Charles certainly got involved with the Pride Month celebrations this year. He demonstrated his support during a recent tree planting ceremony, further emphasizing the family’s commitment to cultivating an inclusive, welcoming environment. Additionally, Lord Ivar Mountbatten, the late Queen’s gay cousin, made history as a symbol of acceptance within the royal lineage.
The Modern Royal Family’s Continued Support
The celebrations included performances by notable figures in the LGBTQ+ community, such as Chaka Khan and stars from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, Vanity Milan and La Voix. Advocates like Elton John, Tom Daley, and Cynthia Nixon make LGBTQ+ parents proud and LGBTQ+ communities. Their visibility showcases the diversity and acceptance that continues to grow in our society.
Prince William ended his trip with an encouraging message to LGBT youth who experience bullying.
Prince William concluded his visit with a message for young people facing bullying based on their sexuality.
“What I would say to any young person reading this who’s being bullied for their sexuality: don’t put up with it – speak to a trusted adult, a friend, a teacher, Childline, Diana Award or some other service and get the help you need. You should be proud of the person you are and you have nothing to be ashamed of.” – Prince William
