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Feminism is about fairness, says Meghan Markle

WION Web Team
New Delhi, Delhi, IndiaUpdated: Oct 29, 2018, 11:43 AM IST
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Photograph:(AFP)

Currently, on a royal tour with husband Prince Harry, Meghan Markle gave a powerful speech on feminism. As the couple reached New Zealand as part of their 16-day long tour, Meghan addressed an audience including Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Governor Dame Patsy Reddy at Government House in Wellington for a welcoming reception, and to celebrate New Zealand’s 125th anniversary of women’s suffrage.
 
As she stood in front of a portrait of Queen Elizabeth, the Duchess said, “We are proud to be able to join you tonight in celebrating the 125th anniversary of women’s suffrage in your country. The achievements of the women of New Zealand who campaigned for their right to vote, and were the first in the world to achieve it, are universally admired,” she said. “In looking forward to this very special occasion, I reflected on the importance of this achievement, but also the larger impact of what this symbolizes.”

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“Because yes, women’s suffrage is about feminism, but feminism is about fairness,” Meghan continued.

Also read: Prince Harry, Meghan Markle visit their namesake county Sussex for the first time
 
“Suffrage is not simply about the right to vote but also about what that represents: the basic and fundamental human right of being able to participate in the choices for your future and that of your community, the involvement and voice that allows you to be a part of the very world that you are a part of.
 
“Women’s suffrage is not simply about the right to vote for women, but also about what that represents: the basic and fundamental human right of all people, including those members of society who have been marginalized whether for reasons of race, gender, ethnicity or orientation, to be able to participate in the choices for their future and their community.”
 
“So bravo, New Zealand, for championing this right 125 years ago — for the women who well deserve to have an active voice and acknowledged vote, and for all of the people that this effort has paved the way for globally,” said Meghan. “We all deeply thank you.”
 
Meghan has long been identified as a feminist, given her work with organisations like One World Vision that helps women and girls living in Dubai and Mumbai. She also served as an ambassador for United Nations Women.