Meghan Markle and Prince Harry visited Colombia on August 17, 2024, and made a stop in the historic village of San Basilio de Palenque outside Cartagena. The town was established as the first free African town in the Americas in 1619. Upon their arrival, the couple was greeted with a performance of the Colombian national anthem by students and enjoyed speeches and performances from the community leaders of Palenque. Vice President Francia Màrquez expressed her gratitude for the couple accepting her invitation to the country, hoping they would discover the essence of the Afro-Colombian culture, including spirituality, music, and ancestral heritage that remains alive in the town today.
During their visit, Meghan and Harry explored a vibrant street market and engaged with the residents of San Basilio de Palenque. They addressed the group in both Spanish and the town’s indigenous language of Palenquero. Meghan expressed her honor in visiting the town and acknowledged its incredible history, while Harry described the experience as incredibly moving. Tour guides who showed the couple around the town praised them for breaking protocol and engaging in conversations about cultural identity, human rights, and racial discrimination. Residents, however, hoped the couple would address the British crown’s role in the colonial slave trade during their visit.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s visit to San Basilio de Palenque exemplified their commitment to uplifting communities and celebrating heritage. The couple’s website highlighted the importance of community spirit and connection, reaffirming their dedication to supporting and empowering marginalized communities. While some residents raised concerns about the British crown’s historical involvement in the slave trade, Meghan and Harry’s visit aimed to showcase the resilience and cultural richness of the Afro-Colombian community in Palenque.
The tour guides who accompanied Meghan and Harry during their visit commended the couple for their engagement with the local community and their efforts to promote human rights. Prince Harry’s response to a guide’s comment about ending racial discrimination indicated the couple’s ongoing commitment to social justice issues. The visit to San Basilio de Palenque provided an opportunity for Meghan and Harry to learn about the town’s history, connect with its residents, and support initiatives that uplift and empower marginalized communities.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s visit to Colombia emphasized the importance of cultural preservation, acknowledgment of historical injustices, and promotion of community empowerment. By choosing to explore a historic African town like San Basilio de Palenque, Meghan and Harry demonstrated their interest in learning about diverse cultures and engaging in conversations about race, identity, and heritage. The visit served as a platform for the couple to interact with local residents, learn about their experiences, and amplify the voices of marginalized communities, reflecting their commitment to social impact and advocacy.
Overall, Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s visit to San Basilio de Palenque in Colombia was a significant moment in their tour of the country, highlighting the resilience, cultural richness, and heritage of the Afro-Colombian community. The couple’s engagement with residents, discussions about human rights and racial discrimination, and acknowledgment of historical legacies underscored their dedication to promoting social justice, uplifting marginalized communities, and fostering connections with diverse cultures. The visit symbolized a commitment to learning, dialogue, and empowerment, as Meghan and Harry continue to use their platform to advocate for positive change and celebrate the diversity of the communities they encounter.
