The Prince and Princess of Wales touched down in Boston this afternoon, kicking off a whirlwind three-day visit. Upon arrival, Prince William released a statement reading: "Catherine and I are delighted to be back in the United States and are extremely grateful to Governor Baker and the First Lady of Massachusetts for their warm welcome to Boston.
"On this, our first overseas visit since the death of my grandmother, I would like to thank the people of Massachusetts and particularly of Boston for their many tributes paid to the late Queen. She remembered her 1976 bicentennial visit with great fondness. My grandmother was one of life's great optimists. And so am I. That is why last year we launched the Earthshot Prize with the ambition to create a truly global platform to inspire hope and urgent optimism as we look to save the future of our planet.
"To the people of Boston, thank you. I'm so grateful to you for allowing us to host the second year of the Earthshot Prize in your great city. Catherine and I can't wait to meet many of you in the days ahead."
William and Kate's visit will begin shortly with a visit to Boston City Hall, which will very much invoke memories of Her late Majesty's aforementioned 1976 visit.
William and Kate will spend time with Mayor Mu. Below, Her late Majesty with Boston Mayor Kevin White.
A video of the Waleses' touching down in a British Airways flight.
Royal visit: William and Kate arriving in Boston https://t.co/uxoRud5OEo
— WCVB-TV Boston (@WCVB) November 30, 2022
Fellow passengers spotted the royals.
FIRST GLIMPSE! Passengers on the British Airways flight to Boston. said the Royal couple was “utterly delightful.” The Prince and Princess of Wales spoke briefly to the others in first class — explaining why they are coming to Boston. #wbz (Courtesy: Brent Suttles) pic.twitter.com/h7sdby0IUl
— Tiffany Chan (@TiffanyChanWBZ) November 30, 2022
William and Kate were warmly greeted.
Arriving at their hotel.
Princess Catherine can be seen waving as she and Prince William arrive at their hotel in Boston.
— Rob Way (@RobWayTV) November 30, 2022
They’re both in the back seat of an electric Range Rover as they kick off their three-day trip to Boston. pic.twitter.com/aTMQctC0TS
The Princess chose a navy suit for the arrival.
There was quite a bit of debate about Kate's suit. It very much appeared she repeated her navy Alexander McQueen suit. Below, Kate wearing it in September for a Windsor Castle audience.
However, upon closer inspection it seems Kate debuted the timeless structured suit in amethyst (with thanks to Middleton Maven).
The Princess wore her navy suede Gianvito Rossi 105 pumps.
Kate accessorised with special earrings -- Princess Diana's sapphire and diamond pair.
We saw the Princess first debut them at Trooping the Colour in June.
More from the eagle-eyed Court Jeweller:
'The earrings, featuring two sapphire and diamond clusters joined by a small diamond brilliant, come from the collection of Kate’s late mother-in-law, Diana, Princess of Wales. For several years people have speculated that these earrings were dismantled to create another sapphire pair worn by Kate. I’ve always believed they were two separate pairs of earrings, and I feel particularly vindicated today! Ha!'
Below, Diana wearing them at the Prince of Tides premiere.
As Kensington Palace staff delivered a media briefing this morning, they likely expected to field questions about a yet unconfirmed (though expected) meeting with President Biden on Friday. However, the story dominating royal headlines was entirely different. At a prestigious reception hosted by the Queen Consort yesterday, and attended by several European royals, a guest at the reception was subjected to a deplorable line of questioning by the late Queen's lady-in-waiting, Prince William's godmother Lady Susan Hussey. Sistah Space chief executive Ngozi Fulani, a leading figure in Britain who has done outstanding work supporting women and families affected by domestic violence was unacceptably interrogated. Ngozi was left feeling "violated" and "alone" in a room full of advocates. Following the shocking revelations, Susan Hussey has resigned.
Mixed feelings about yesterday's visit to Buckingham Palace. 10 mins after arriving, a member of staff, Lady SH, approached me, moved my hair to see my name badge. The conversation below took place. The rest of the event is a blur.
— Sistah Space (@Sistah_Space) November 30, 2022
Thanks @ManduReid & @SuzanneEJacob for support🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/OUbQKlabyq
The incident was witnessed by Leader of the Women's Equality Party Mandu Reid who shared insightful thoughts on the much-needed steps moving forward: "Institutional racism, the kind of dynamics we experience, are a real problem and have really damaging effects for people like me, people like Ngozi who are interacting with the royal household."
The late Queen’s lady in waiting has resigned and apologised after repeatedly asking Ngozi Fulani, a prominent black advocate for survivors of domestic abuse, where she “really came from”.@mrdanwalker spoke about it with @ManduReid, who was at the event and heard the comments. pic.twitter.com/Fzdaycxg9O
— Channel 5 News (@5_News) November 30, 2022
In response, Prince William's spokesperson (I'm not entirely clear but I expect it's the new American communications secretary and former NBC employee Lee Thompson) told the press:
"I want to address the story relating to a guest attending a reception at Buckingham Palace last night. This is a matter for Buckingham Palace but as the Prince of Wales spokesperson I appreciate you're all here and understand you'll want to ask about it. So let me address it head on. I was really disappointed to hear about the guests experience at Buckingham Palace last night. Obviously, I wasn't there, but racism has no place in our society. The comments were unacceptable, and it is right that individual has stepped aside with immediate effect."
We'll see the couple join Mayor Wu and Caroline Kennedy for a special event in an hour or so.
They both look very smart on arrival. I love the cut and fit of The Princess of Wales suit. It definitely looks dark purple in some photographs. I love those sapphire earrings on her. Charlotte I'm very glad that you brought up that terrible incident at the Palace. I feel like the statement said " This is a matter for Buckingham Palace. Apart from being his 83 year old Godmother, this has absolutely nothing to do with The Prince and Princess of Wales. Charlotte any link to watch the reception later? S. 😊
ReplyDeleteI know this is a generalization, but I think Kate is very appropriately dressed for her arrival. I would have preferred different earrings, but she looks great. Re the guest who was interrogated, I find just the act of moving someone's hair to see their badge outrageous.
ReplyDeleteCharlotte, thank you for tackling this unfortunate incident and I know we’re all glad the Palace addressed it so firmly and properly.
ReplyDeleteCatherine’s suit is working woman smart. Not in love with the stiff shoulder and tight fit of the blazer, but all in all it’s a good choice.
I admire William’s arrival statement. Looking forward to a steady focus on this important work.
Karen in Virginia
I am so happy they are here in the States!! Goodness, the smiles on their faces while be welcomed by the Mayor was an absolute delight to see!! They both look lovely and to me, it does look like her suit appears of a purple shade, but either way, blue or purpose, The Princess looks beautiful 💙💜
ReplyDelete-FloridaGirl
Just read that The White House has confirmed a meeting with The President and The Prince and Princess of Wales on Friday. S 😊
ReplyDeleteThe crowd is AMAZING
ReplyDeleteI have been trying to watch the full ceremony at Boston City Hall but it isn't available yet on streaming. What I did see were photos of W & K chatting with the other passengers on their flight to Boston, photos of the crowds of people cheering them and that was good after the jolt of the news from BP this morning. Since you've brought it up, dear Charlotte, here are my two cents' worth and then I am going to return to celebrating Earthshot and W & K: I have just finished reading Valentine Low's Courtiers and he hints several times that the people that surrounded Queen Elizabeth were out of step but she valued their friendship and so she kept them with her. She also hints several times that William was frustrated by non-responses (and BTW, your parents choose your godparents, you don't.) Charles and Camilla started their reign not really cleaning house but I think it's time now for those courtiers and many of the Queen's old friends to go and, after this morning's swift and PUBLIC reaction, I think that's what they intend to do. For people to blame W & K for this and to claim that this is a "disaster" for their time in the US is just plain wrong. And I notice it is the same group of people in the media who are trying to talk up the disaster media who also slammed their Caribbean tour.
ReplyDeleteI know that in my generation I had to have a lot of uncomfortable-for-me conversations about what "my generation/my country (Canada)/my race" had done to BIPOC when I could honestly say I never did any of that nor had I ever thought any of that even though my parents and grandparents had (especially my grandparents--how many of you have cringed when your 80-something grandparent gave their opinion about the world today?)--and nothing could have changed them. I had to bide my time until I was in a position to help change the narrative between myself and disenfranchised others. And so I ended up apologizing for my forebears and then moving onward to earn respect on my own terms. Which is what I think W & K are trying very hard to do, admitting when mistakes are made, clarifying that that is NOT who they are or what they are. But people will always believe the worst when it suits their agenda as I, who right now am unhappily watching the political flap here in my county in Arizona, as a minority who can do nothing about the spotlight that is being shone on us as a group that I am NOT part of, well know. Okay, 'nuff said. I have limited Twitter to the few trustworthy sites that focus on positive, thoughtful reporting, I have cancelled the Daily Mail subscription, will not even glance at any UK tabloids from now on and I will rest in the gentleness and thoughtfulness of your blog, Charlotte. And thank you for that. Valerie in Arizona
Very well said Valerie! I share your sentiments totally and exactly! There are those that want to push a very negative agenda, and quite frankly it is tiresome. I believe that W & K are trying very hard to clarify who and what they are and we should give them the opportunity to show us. This trip and its purpose is certainly worthy of our attention and I hope that W & K can rise above. Again Valerie, very nicely stated!
DeleteI always enjoy your comments and I basically agree w what you say, but I also think it's important to listen closely to what Mandu Reid has to say. There is an ingrained problem in the UK re not just racism but classicism. (Not singling out the UK, its everywhere.) And while yes I believe it's more strongly retained in the older generations, who can forget that awful day PMichael of Kent wore a blackmoor brooch to the Queen's lunch, I also have a hard time forgetting the eye rolls & side long glances passed between younger royals at H & M's wedding during the homily, an African-American tradition they clearly did not welcome within their church walls. If this latest offense leads to a little deeper soul searching & introspection, that would only be a good thing for the royal family. Stay strong in Arizona!
DeleteRebecca you are right that it is important to listen closely to what has been said. In fact, Valerie intimated that it is time to sit up, take notice, and a 'house-cleaning' is in order. It's the innuendo that somehow William and Kate are to 'blame' is what is not right. Racism and classicism are not a uniquely UK problem, and it is ingrained throughout the world and throughout different cultures, it will not be righted within a night, a week, or even a year, it is going to take time. I think William's comment does show that he wants to take note and do the right thing, even if it means a deeper look into how change can be effected within the monarchy. To decry an 80 year old woman, who not only was a trusted courtier to the Queen, but also a woman who is his godmother, shows how seriously he takes this encounter, and to what extent he is willing to and wants to make changes. To Valerie's comment, it is frustrating to see the negative narrative that continues to fan the flames on all fronts, and keep the world divided.
DeleteRebecca, I am glad that you read my comments with a sympathetic ear; I am trying very hard not to offend anyone but at the same time to point out things that, in my 70-odd years, I have myself experienced and that have made me look at events with a more circumspect gaze. I don't know if you are in the UK or live in a different country (and wouldn't dare ask now [cheeky smile]) but I grew up as an Anglo in Quebec, worked in the UK as a "colonial" who was often mistaken for being American (usually not a compliment), ended up being dumped by my upper middle class English boyfriend, despite our child, because he found out my late grandmother had been Irish Catholic, and then returned to Canada to work in a very racially diverse area of Toronto only to be castigated again and again as a "privileged" white person when, truly, race was only a small part of my identity as a struggling single mom. I had been decidedly un-privileged growing up as a linguistic minority in Quebec, an outsider in the UK.... And now I live in small-town Arizona where my neighbors think I am a pinko (hadn't heard that term in decades but there you are) . . . as I said 'nuff said! I KNOW about being "different" even if you would look at me and make assumptions (no, you wouldn't because you like what I write [smiling again]). So how do you, how do I, how does ANYONE know what kind of soul searching and introspection hasn't already gone on in the Palace before this whole incident? What the heck was the Queen trying to do if not highlight that domestic violence affects everyone? As Anonymous says, change can't happen overnight and this whole incident had a very suspicious timing to it because look what's happened: even on a blog where we (well most of us) are very much pro- W & K and what they are trying to do, what are we talking about? Despite their foibles, I am thankful for all of the countries I have lived in and the people who have taught me so much about becoming a better person. And that includes many of the people on this blog over the past (oh how long has it been Charlotte, 12 years?) Valerie in Arizona where the election has finally, blessedly been put to bed (except for the lawsuits that will be coming next week.)
DeleteI’m going with the suit being purple. Wills suit Is navy and in the same lighting here is showing up purple. The top underneath is still showing up navy in all the pics so I’m going with new suit in purple colour.
ReplyDeleteFinal answer! :P
DeleteI love the deep purple color. And this was a beautiful outfit, she would not have had the room to change on a commercial flight. Remember, Boston is cold this time of year. That older lady did the right thing by resigning, was she considered employed by BP ? Doesn’t the Queen get to chose new ladies or ask the older ones to retire? How does this whole lady-in-waiting thing work?
ReplyDeleteThe Queen invites the Lady's to help her out. They do not get paid, it is considered a honour to serve The Queen. What I don't understand is Lady Sarah was with the late Queen for over 60 year's. She has traveled the world with the Queen and most of her UK events. The Lady has never put a foot wrong in all those years. It just seems so out of character. To touch someone's hair and them speak down to them while making inappropriate remarks is just insane to be honest. I hope it's not a health issue. I think she was kept on because of her loyalty and service to the Queen. She was a dresser for the Queen till Angela took over. This will be very upsetting and a huge fall from grace for this Lady. Im very sorry for the Woman who was treated like that, I'm glad she spoke out. S 😊
Delete.
I think it’s more likely that this behavior was common in the royal family establishment for generations. Let’s not forget this is an institution deeply enmeshed with classicism and lack of diversity that goes along with that. I’d hazard a guess these kinds of things happened all the time and they simply weren’t considered “putting a foot wrong”. The recently departed Duke of Edinburgh had a fairly storied history of racially and socially offensive tinged gaffes. I think times have been and are changing rapidly and it will no longer be tolerated by the public and the RF is more and more obligated to respond and act as they did in this case. I am hopeful as an institution they can shift to a more multi cultural and inclusive world view that may prevent some of these offenses in the future.
DeleteI think it was in connection with Meghan and Harry's problems with racism that someone pointed out that at Buckingham Palace, you find PoC mostly in menial working positions and very rarely in middle management or higher (I think it were only one or two persons there). I was quite sad to read that because I assume that was a sphere the late Queen really had some influence in.
DeleteI hope the suit is a rewear because of the link to the theme of being environmentally friendly. It was a good first impression. The statement W released is good, he's very blunt in the way he addresses things sometimes but I welcome the transparency. I really felt for Ngozi when I read about that conversation. It was very 'othering' and she must have felt very alone in the crowd. I did spare a thought for Lady Susan though. In her 80s, to suddenly be internationally famous for racism must be a terrible shock. Her life and legacy changed inside 30 seconds. It's too easy for the palace to distance themselves from her. She, alone, is not the whole problem. The problem is the Royal, or their team, who decided that she should be there. They are accountable for their aides and need to exercise good judgement. They are less likely to go wrong if they surround themselves with a professional employed team rather than relying apparently on the favours of the aristocracy who will usually have a narrow and remote view of life. What happened at that reception cannot be resolved with one resignation. My final thought: it must have taken Ngozi real courage to speak truth to power and I hope she's okay.
ReplyDeleteWhen I travel overseas, the first thing I want to do upon landing is take a shower and a nap. But here they are, looking very fresh and gearing up for a busy 3 days.
ReplyDeleteI think the suit is purple. Good choice for traveling as it looks reasonably comfortable for the flight and not showing a lot of wear upon touchdown. With the dark sweater (presumably navy) underneath, the outfit is screaming for a necklace to break up the dark palette.
With respect to the matter of Lady Hussey’s interaction with the guest at the Palace, I’m really in shock that a woman who spent years in service to the very thoughtful and dignified Queen could act in such an atrocious manner. Setting aside the disgusting racism inherent in her behavior, how could anyone think it appropriate to touch someone else’s hair? Interrogate them as to their background? Refuse to accept the first, second and third answer proffered upon being asked a question about said background. While I’m appalled at Lady Hussey’s behavior, I’m cynical enough not to be shocked by the racism inherent in it. I am, however, dumbfounded by the spectacular rudeness she exhibited. I’m glad W&C got on top of this with their statement.
Something readers of this blog may not be aware of is that Lady Hussey is married to Sir Marmaduke Hussey, former head of the BBC for many years. While no one is saying there is any link to him or the BBC it’s astonishing that anyone associated with public broadcasting could be so insensitive to say the least! I agree with the reader who said it’s time to clear house.
ReplyDeleteIt reminds me of the comment Meghan complained about relating to the skin color of Archie.
Racism is endemic and institutionalized,
K’s outfit looked great! A good work look for the cold Boston weather.
-celticgirl
This is what a modern monarchy looks like--trousers upon arrival! I'm floored and thrilled! Kate looks very strong and intelligent.
ReplyDeleteWhile trousers are most definitely my go to, I would disagree that wearing trousers is what makes you modern. W&K in many ways actually fill their role much more conservatively than his patents or grandparents. Not all is bad. But the outfit is not disguising that.
DeleteNo excuse for what Lady Susan said. I wonder if she has said things like this before that have gone unreported, or if she is perhaps now in a state of dementia. Very unfortunate and quite distressing for the guest.
ReplyDeleteAlas, a great many older people, here in the US as well, still can't quite grasp that people who look different from them are not exotic foreigners but rather share their birthplaces, their citizenship, their rights, and much else with them. I fear more time must pass before certain assumptions cease to crop up routinely. Things will likely change relatively soon, however, as the Palace machine is, er, streamlined and re-organized under the new monarch. I think Prince William's response to questions was reasonably well-considered.
ReplyDeleteBut that does not necessarily address issues in the wider culture. Sadly, I have to say that I have British friends and colleagues who insist that racism doesn't exist in the UK (that it's really just an "American problem") and Black British acquaintances who roll their eyes and sigh in frustration at such comments. One thing I've often said about racism in the US is that Americans are at least very open about our racial problems; we do not deny their existence. It is actually one of our strengths and the one that gives me the most hope for the future of race relations here.
From the serious to the trivial: I love the deep amethyst-violet of this beautifully-tailored trouser suit, but I wish the Princess had worn a sweater that offered a bit more chromatic contrast. The suit and top appeared to be a monochromatic dark blue in photos, and that wasn't particularly exciting.
I also question whether the earrings were really appropriate wear with a relatively casual trouser suit, worn by day. All in all, a fine look, but one that could have used a little more thought in order to make a better impact and impression.
I love the colour of the suit. I knew it was a shade of purple. My first thought on seeing it was Diana's amethyst earrings would of worked better. After reading your comments I think a large stud earring would look better with this suit. S 😊.
DeleteThis is really a fabulous suit. The fit and cut is perfect. The coat and pants fit so well. I love the jumper worn. The earrings look wonderful. The Princess looks chic stylish and elegant.
ReplyDeleteI love the colour of the suit. I knew it was a shade of purple. My first thought on seeing it was Diana's amethyst earing was paid tribute to her mother in law hmm the comment of Racicot among the staffs reminds me of the complain about archie skin on opera
ReplyDeleteThe Princess looked beautiful, and professional on arrival. They may have been able to change clothes before landing in Boston. Since I haven’t seen pictures of them departing, I can’t be sure. They both looked fresh, and rested.
ReplyDeleteThe debacle at BP is a nightmare. Lady SH must have lost her mind to behave in such a deplorable, and racist manner. This is an opportunity for King Charles to clean house, and address the problem of racism within his own circle.
Being an American, I realize we have plenty to answer for too, starting with the slaughter of Native Americans, Slavery, and the list goes on.
I sincerely hope that the timing of this incident does not detract from the Prince and Princess of Wales trip. That indeed would be a shame.
Tedi
Tedi, interesting timing right? I've seen crazy non stop coverage from the Wales in Boston and it's media so it seems focus is where it should be.
DeleteShe looks so great getting off that plane. I wish i looked half as good after an international flight. that racist incident at the palace was what meghan markle said was going on glad they dealt with it swiftly this time too bad they didnt listen to meghan and harry maybe they would still be working royals if they did
ReplyDeleteWow, wonderful to hear Ms. Reid’s take on the palace’s swift response to the deplorable institutional racism at Tuesday’s reception—stating that a swift resignation isn’t a solution but in fact a way to minimize the problem by reducing it to one bad actor and also pointing out the hard work and deep reflection that actually are needed. Thank you. Charlottes.
ReplyDeleteRosalind
I really like Kate’s outfit. The wide pants were never a good look on her (or anyone for that matter). So happy she is now opting for a slim cut.
ReplyDeleteMrs. Hussey really missed the memo. I get that asking after someone’s background when it is basically a big part of why Ms Ngozi started the charity is an easy and common conversation starter. She should have either stopped asking at “Hackney” or specifically asked after Ngozi’s parents and their experiences after coming from the Caribbean or if she knew more about her African heritage. And accepting her answers. But going on and baiting for an answer that wouldn’t come not just shows a serious lack of respect (and invading someone else’s space like that is a big NO in every instance- did teach me about the particular experiences of POC around though) but also a serious problem in communication management. They probably have several scripts how to speak to all those people. Knowing some personal detail, trying to exchange four/five sentences before moving on, leaving the person with the feeling they were really well prepared and interested in them. She should have realised script A wasn’t working and jumping either ahead or changing course.
I think this style of suit is always nice, but it’s not my first choice to have the dark turtleneck underneath. They both look great and I’m so excited they’re here. ;)
ReplyDeleteAs for the news from
Buckingham palace, I’m so disappointed. Such a powerful event for an important cause now gets known for an uncomfortable (for the individual and those around) & regrettable racist remark. I’m not sure what the woman was thinking when she kept her line of questioning going & touched the hair (it’s in personal space & she could’ve just told the guest she couldn’t see her name/org) but that obviously can’t happen. It really feels like the Caribbean tour this spring where it felt negative before they even arrived. But Will and Kate are classy as ever getting on with the job. The Family will need to work quickly and collectively to get back on track to address this issue and fo an overhaul system-wide. I wonder what kind of conversations they have going forward. It is interesting timing with so much Sussex stuff right now. (TV series, award, Megan talk circuit, invictus promo to buy tickets 9 months out). I look forward to the next 2 days and hope they get some real coverage of the amazing Earthshot finalists and green initiatives in Boston! Thank you Charlotte! Sue