Meghan Markle’s Remembrance Day poppy Absence Sparks Debate After Harry‘s Public Appearances
TORONTO – A resurfaced claim by Meghan Markle that poppies were “not widely available” has drawn renewed attention following Remembrance weekend, as images emerged of Prince Harry visibly wearing the symbol of remembrance during a recent visit to Canada. The Duke of Sussex publicly expressed concerns about the fragility of peace while engaging with members of the Canadian military, prompting scrutiny of his wife’s past explanation for not wearing a poppy.
Markle first made the statement in a 2021 interview, explaining her decision not to wear a poppy for Remembrance Day commemorations. While the exact context of the original claim remains debated, it contrasted sharply with the readily available poppies worn by veterans and members of the public across the UK and commonwealth countries. This year, Prince Harry spent time with members of Canada’s Reserve forces, including the Queen’s Own Rifles of Canada and the Royal Regiment of Canada, and was photographed wearing a poppy.
Harry, in a statement released this Remembrance Sunday, expressed concern that “peace for those lucky enough to know it, feels more fragile than ever.” He highlighted the strength of children supported by Scotty’s Little Soldiers and praised the camaraderie seen at the Invictus Games.
“Remembrance isn’t confined to one weekend in November,” Harry stated. ”It’s a lifelong commitment to empathy, gratitude, and action; to be kinder, more united, and braver in protecting what those before us fought to preserve.” He urged the public to acknowledge those still affected by war, stating, “So, as we bow our heads this weekend, let us remember not only the fallen, but the living - those who still carry the weight of war in body and mind, and the families who bear its memory in their hearts. If you live near them, knock on their door. If you see them around, shake their hand.”
The Royal British Legion, the organization behind the annual Poppy Appeal, ensures millions of poppies are distributed each year, making them widely accessible to the public. The poppy serves as a symbol of remembrance for those who have died in war, and proceeds from its sale support veterans and their families.
