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Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were left emotional on Saturday (February 26) as they accepted a civil rights award from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex were recognised for their promotion of Covid-19 vaccine equality, aid to a Texas women’s shelter and partnership to create community relief centres.
They were awarded the coveted 2022 President’s Award for their efforts by Dr. Safiya Noble – a professor of gender studies and African American studies at the California-based UCLA.
"Our lives were brought together for a reason," Meghan said as the pair appeared glammed up on stage to pickup the award.
In a statement released ahead of the ceremony, the couple said: "It’s a true honour to be recognised by President Derrick Johnson and the NAACP, whose efforts to propel racial justice and civil rights are as vital today as they were nearly 115 years ago.
"We’re proud to support the NAACP’s work and to also partner with the organisation on the newly created annual NAACP-Archewell Digital Civil Rights Award, which will be bestowed to Dr. Safiya Noble as part of the 53rd NAACP Image Awards."
President Johnson added: "We’re thrilled to present this award to Prince Harry and Meghan, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who together have heeded the call to social justice and have joined the struggle for equity both in the US and around the world.
"Not only do they continue to lead by example, the Duke and Duchess have also decided to inspire the next generation of activists through the NAACP-Archewell Digital Civil Rights Award, ensuring the support and recognition of generations of civil rights leaders to come."
Previous recipients of the President’s Award include President Bill Clinton, former secretary of state Colin Powell and Rev. Jesse Jackson.
The 53rd NAACP Image Awards kicked off on Saturday at 1am Greenwich Mean Time, featuring performances from Grammy Award-winning singer Mary J. Blige and appearances from celebrities like Morgan Freeman, Samuel L. Jackson and Zendaya.
It comes after the couple – who stepped back from Royal duties last year – found themselves under fire from loyal fans of the Royal Family, who were baffled by the decision by the NAACP.
One tweeted: "They won an award?? For what??? Seriously. My dad has spent years working at a food bank and he and my mum haven’t had a photoshoot to celebrate the award he hasn’t won!"
Another swiped: "Rubbish! Charity starts at home, these two are only self-serving."
However, other fans have been more supportive of the couple, as one posted: "Congratulations Harry and Meghan. Glad Harry has learned so much about social justice and the world has practically watched him change."
Another added: "Wonderful news! Congratulations Harry and Meghan."
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- Meghan Markle
- Prince Harry
- Royal Family
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