The Royals, to we Americans who care not for their ways, are a complete waste of time. But it is all news.
Harry and Meghan, Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have embarked on a four-day visit to Bogotá, Colombia, where they are focusing on initiatives that protect children from online harm. The couple’s visit, which began on Thursday, follows an invitation from Vice President Francia Márquez, the first Afro-Colombian to hold executive powers in the country.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle ended the first day of their visit to Colombia with some serious statements about their major charitable undertaking to promote online safety.https://t.co/fws2Nmn3ls
— VANITY FAIR (@VanityFair) August 16, 2024
Upon their arrival, the Sussexes were warmly welcomed by Márquez and her partner, Rafael Pinillo. The meeting, which took place at the vice president’s residence, was marked by a friendly exchange of gifts and discussions over traditional Colombian snacks. During their talks, Márquez emphasized that the Sussexes share common goals in advocating for a safer digital future and better mental health outcomes for children globally.
Márquez, who also serves as Colombia’s minister for equality, highlighted the importance of addressing cyber harassment and online discrimination. She pointed out that these issues do not only affect individuals based on race but also extend to gender and politics, particularly impacting women and children. Márquez expressed her commitment to creating a safer digital environment, drawing from her own experiences as an environmental defender of African heritage.
As part of their visit, Harry and Meghan attended the “Responsible Digital Future” forum at EAN University in Bogotá. This event is one of several engagements they will participate in while in Colombia, all aimed at safeguarding young people from online dangers. The couple’s advocacy aligns with their ongoing efforts through the Archewell Foundation, which recently launched “The Parents’ Network,” a support system for families affected by social media’s negative impacts.
During their stay, the Sussexes will also travel to the cities of Cartagena and Cali, where they will engage with local leaders, youth, and women who embody the aspirations of Colombians committed to progress. Their visit, which is not an official state visit, mirrors some aspects of traditional royal tours but is independent of the UK government, as they stepped back as working royals in 2020.
Prince Harry a d Princess Meghan.
the Duke and Duchess of Sussex are working hard to make the world a better place. Online safety is a very important cause. Service is universal#HarryandMeghaninColombia #ServiceIsUniversal pic.twitter.com/FbFDkbT5KL— Huguette (@LaReine94943111) August 16, 2024
This trip marks the couple’s third international journey this year, following visits to Canada and Nigeria. It precedes the first Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children, set for November, where online safety and the mental health of children will be key topics.
Key Points:
i. Harry and Meghan, Duke and Duchess of Sussex, arrived in Bogotá, Colombia, for a four-day visit focused on protecting children from online harm.
ii. visit was initiated by an invitation from Vice President Francia Márquez, the first Afro-Colombian to hold executive powers.
iii. The couple participated in discussions on cyber harassment, online discrimination, and mental health, with an emphasis on youth safety.
iv. The Sussexes are expected to visit Cartagena and Cali, engaging with local leaders, youth, and women committed to progress.
v. Their visit comes ahead of the Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children, highlighting their ongoing commitment to online safety through their Archewell Foundation.
TL Holcomb – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
