Duchess Faces Backlash Amid Claims of "Disaster Tourism"
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are under fire following their publicized visit to a Los Angeles food bank to assist victims of the devastating wildfires in California. While their efforts to support the affected community in Pasadena included meeting local officials and offering aid, the couple has faced sharp criticism for their approach.
Actress Justine Bateman accused the Duke and Duchess of being "disaster tourists," labeling their appearance as a "repulsive photo-op." This sentiment was echoed by royal commentator Amanda Platell, who suggested Meghan could learn from Princess Kate’s quieter approach to handling grief and tragedy.
Platell pointed to an example from last year when the Princess of Wales visited Southport following a tragic stabbing rampage. Kate’s visit, conducted without media fanfare, was marked by private meetings with grieving families, reflecting what Platell described as "genuine compassion."
In contrast, Platell criticised Meghan and Harry’s highly visible presence during the wildfire relief efforts, arguing that their publicized actions drew attention away from the cause itself. She stated that adopting a more understated and personal approach, as Kate has demonstrated, would better serve their efforts and public image.
As the Duke and Duchess of Sussex continue their philanthropic initiatives, the backlash underscores the challenges they face in navigating public scrutiny, even when engaging in charitable work. For Meghan and Harry, the wildfire visit highlights the fine line between advocacy and accusations of insensitivity.
