In the wake of Queen Elizabeth II’s passing, the world has been reflecting on her legacy, but not all sentiments are rooted in grief.
Particularly within the Black community, there’s been a notable pushback against the traditional narratives surrounding the monarchy.
As discussions unfold, many voices are rising to share their perspectives, challenging the long-held views about colonialism and its impacts.
One commentator, who recently donned a beloved sweater gifted by her daughter, expressed her desire for comfort amidst the ongoing controversies.
She acknowledges the mixed feelings that have emerged particularly among Black individuals in the United States regarding the Queen’s death.
Many are grappling with the historical weight of colonialism and its repercussions, which remain relevant today.
This commentator shared gratitude for those who reached out with insights about the Black experience in the UK, emphasizing the stark differences compared to the American context.
Her past experiences living in the UK revealed a complex landscape where discussions about race and history differ significantly from those in the States.
She pointed out how various media outlets seem to echo similar sentiments about the monarchy’s colonial past.
This narrative often overlooks the broader context of history, where many nations, regardless of race, engaged in acts of colonialism for financial gain.
The harsh realities of history should prompt a more nuanced discussion rather than a simplistic blame game.
Amidst this discourse, she criticized the tendency to focus solely on historical grievances while ignoring contemporary issues affecting the Black community, such as violence and crime.
She argued that there is a need for self-reflection and accountability rather than perpetually casting blame on historical figures or institutions for past injustices.
The commentator passionately advocates for empowerment within the Black community, emphasizing that the focus should be on uplifting individuals rather than viewing them solely as victims of circumstance.
Her commitment to her nonprofit work reflects her desire to inspire positive change and resilience among Black individuals.
Turning her attention back to the royal family, she expressed concern over how Meghan Markle has influenced public perception.
By bringing her personal narrative into the royal fold, Markle has sparked debates about race and tradition that have polarized opinions.
The commentator believes that this shift has overshadowed the monarchy’s attempts at modernization and decolonization.
She highlighted an instance from a recent radio show where discussions about colonialism and the Queen’s legacy unfolded.
The commentary often neglects the progress made under her reign, such as the decolonization efforts in various nations.
Instead, the focus remains fixated on past atrocities, which can hinder forward-thinking dialogue.
Moreover, she critiqued the public’s reception of the royal family’s actions during this period of mourning, particularly Meghan and Harry’s decision to hold hands during a solemn procession.
To her, this act felt disrespectful, undermining the gravity of the occasion and drawing attention away from the Queen’s legacy.
While acknowledging the complexities of cultural integration, she argued for the importance of respecting traditions when entering a new cultural space.
Just as one would expect respect for their own customs, she believes it is essential for others to honor the traditions they encounter.
Despite her frustrations, she noted a glimmer of hope in the royal family’s handling of certain protocols, such as restricting military uniforms to working royals only.
This decision exemplified an effort to maintain a sense of order and respect within the monarchy during tumultuous times.
As discussions continue, the landscape remains fraught with tension and differing opinions.
The need for open dialogue and understanding across cultures is more crucial than ever, as the world grapples with the legacies of the past while striving for a more equitable future.