Fresh off their appearance at the NAACP Image Awards over the weekend, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are kicking off Women’s History Month by taking action. On Tuesday, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced on their Archewell Foundation website that they will be supporting a number of organisations to advance gender equality through new grants.
“As we cross into Women’s History Month, and ahead of International Women’s Day next week, Archewell Foundation is announcing a number of non-profit investments in leading organisations working to advance gender equity, build policies that empower women and families, ensure meaningful media representation for women, and provide women with a network of tools and support for gaining employment,” the statement began. “While we celebrate contributions from women throughout history, and reflect on the work that remains to achieve a safe, just, and equal world for women and girls, Archewell Foundation is proud to advance the missions of the following groups through new grants.”
“Archewell Foundation is proud to advance the missions of the following groups through new grants.”
The four organisations receiving grants are The Centre on Poverty and Inequality, Georgetown University Law Center; the National Women’s Law Center; The 19th; and Meghan’s Smart Works patronage. “These investments are representative of the approach that Archewell Foundation, as well as The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, have taken towards advancing racial and gender justice,” the statement continued. “Part of Archewell Foundation’s core commitment is to build strong, compassionate, and equitable communities across the world. Although these grants have been announced as we recognise Women’s History Month, the work they represent is relevant and vital every day of the year.”
Following the Sussexes’ announcement, Smart Works CEO Kate Stephens told Hello magazine that they are “so grateful to Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex and Archewell Foundation for their steadfast support of Smart Works’ mission and continued growth.” She added, “Whether in person or remote, we are dedicated to providing women with the tools they need to feel confident at such a critical moment in their lives, and the research we are undertaking will shine a light on the challenges they face.”
The National Women’s Law Center also thanked Harry and Meghan for their support on Twitter. “We are thrilled to be receiving support from the Archewell Foundation, Prince Harry and Meghan, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex!” the organisation tweeted. “Their amplification of issues central to women’s progress couldn’t come at a more critical time in the fight for gender justice.”
