As the U.S. presidential election looms on the horizon, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are stepping up their efforts to engage voters through their Archewell Foundation.
With November’s Election Day fast approaching, the couple is keen to ensure that every eligible American has a chance to make their voice heard.
On September 17, recognized as National Voter Registration Day, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s organization shared an inspiring recap of their recent initiative.
The Archewell team took to heart the mission of motivating unregistered citizens to sign up to vote by crafting personalized letters.
They leveraged Vote Forward’s letter-writing tool to aid in this endeavor.
In a statement posted on their foundation’s website, they emphasized the importance of voting, asserting that it serves as a critical mechanism for individuals to shape their communities’ destinies.
The message highlighted that civic engagement transcends political affiliations, stating, “At The Archewell Foundation, we believe that active participation in democracy is essential for a fairer society.”
The foundation’s call to action was clear: they encouraged everyone to join in this vital movement.
By providing links to Vote Forward and Vote.gov, they aimed to empower individuals with the resources necessary to participate in the electoral process.
While Harry and Meghan were not photographed during this particular volunteer activity, they have a history of advocating for voter registration.
Back in September 2020, they made headlines when they appeared in a video during an ABC special honoring the TIME100 list, where they passionately urged viewers to register to vote.
This marked their first joint television appearance after stepping back from royal duties and relocating to California.
In that poignant video, Meghan remarked, “Now we’re just six weeks away from Election Day.” She stressed the significance of that year’s election, saying, “Every four years, we hear it’s the most important election of our lifetime, but this time it truly is.” Her words resonated deeply, particularly in the context of the intense rivalry between Joe Biden and Donald Trump.
Harry also shared his perspective, revealing the unique challenges he faced regarding voting.
“I won’t be able to vote here in the U.S.,” he stated, reflecting on his upbringing within the politically neutral British royal family.
He underscored the need to combat hate speech and misinformation as the election approached.
Notably, Meghan made history in 2020 when she became the first royal family member to cast a ballot in a U.S. presidential election.
Sources close to the couple confirmed that they had been closely monitoring the political landscape leading up to that pivotal event.
In a heartfelt conversation, Meghan’s friend Gloria Steinem recalled how they spent time cold-calling voters to discuss the importance of representation and civic duty.
Around this period, Meghan also expressed her excitement about participating in the election alongside notable women like Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey, sharing her motivations for voting.
Throughout her advocacy, Meghan has often articulated the dual experience of having a voice while also feeling unheard.
She poignantly noted the sacrifices made by countless individuals who fought for the right to vote, emphasizing the significance of exercising this fundamental privilege.
Recalling a powerful quote from suffragist leader Kate Sheppard, Meghan reminded her audience that every single vote matters, likening it to droplets of rain that together nourish the earth.
This sentiment encapsulated her belief in the collective power of individual voices.
On Election Day in November 2022, the Archewell Foundation celebrated participation by sharing a photo of Meghan proudly displaying her “I Voted” sticker.
Their message urged Americans to take part in the democratic process, complete with practical tips for casting votes in person.
Through these initiatives, Meghan and Harry continue to champion the cause of voter engagement, reminding us all of the profound impact each voice can have in shaping the future.
