Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Honor Human Rights Icon Desmond Tutu

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are honoring human rights icon Desmond Tutu.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex paid tribute to Archbishop Tutu of South Africa, who died Sunday at the age of 90. The Nobel Prize winner fought tirelessly against apartheid—the country's regime of oppression against its Black citizens—and campaigned internationally for racial justice and LGBTQ rights. The clergyman was also the first Black bishop of Johannesburg, and later became the Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town, earning his nickname "The Arch."

In their statement, Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan lauded his life's work and reflected on their son Archie's 2019 meeting with Tutu and his daughter Thandeka in Cape Town.

"Archbishop Tutu will be remembered for his optimism, his moral clarity, and his joyful spirit. He was an icon for racial justice and beloved across the world. It was only two years ago that he held our son, Archie, while we were in South Africa – 'Arch and The Arch' he had joked, his infectious laughter ringing through the room, relaxing anyone in his presence. He remained a friend and will be sorely missed by all."

The event at Cape Town's Old Granary building, which was Archie's first official engagement, acknowledged the work being done by the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, which facilitates discussions about social justice and makes the lessons of Archbishop Tutu accessible to new generations.

TOBY MELVILLE//Getty Images

Harry and Meghan have closely followed Archbishop Tutu's work, and have previously shared his inspiring quotes on their Instagram account. Harry also met with the Archbishop in November 2015, when he was presented with the Insignia of an Honorary member of The Order of Their Companions of Honour on behalf of the Queen, in recognition of his services to British communities and international peace reconciliation.

Tutu is survived by his wife of more than 60 years, Nomalizo Leah Tutu, and his children, per CNN.

Quinci LeGardye is an LA-based freelance writer who covers culture, politics, and mental health through a Black feminist lens. When she isn’t writing or checking Twitter, she’s probably watching the latest K-drama or giving a concert performance in her car.

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