Queen Camilla says she stands by survivors of sexual abuse in moving speech at International Women's Day reception
The queen welcomed members of the Women of the World group
Queen Camilla spoke out on Sunday, in a speech to mark International Women’s Day.
In her speech, the queen insisted she stands by those who have survived sexual violence.
Queen Camilla’s International Women’s Day speech
Queen Camilla sent a message of support, stating: “We stand with you and alongside you, today and every day. In solidarity, sorrow and sympathy.”
Her words come after Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest for suspected misconduct in relation to Jeffrey Epstein, whilst the former prince was the UK’s trade envoy. Andrew has endured scrutiny for years due to his alleged friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The former Duke of York was also accused of sexual assault by the late survivor of Jeffrey Epstein, Virginia Giuffre, who died by suicide last year.
Andrew has vehemently denied all wrongdoing in relation to Epstein. Andrew also denied Virginia Giuffre’s claims against him.
Queen Camilla speaks out for survivors following latest Epstein saga twists and turns
Queen Camilla welcomed guests to St James’s Palace on International Women’s Day on Sunday, with the likes of Dame Helen Mirren, Sandi Toksvig, Lady Cherie Blair and Miriam Margolyes, in attendance for an event for the Women of the World group.
The group campaigns for an “equal and inclusive future”.
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Queen Camilla said: “To every survivor of every kind of violence, many of whom have not been able to tell their stories or who have not been believed, please know that you are not alone”.
Although Queen Camilla did not mention Jeffrey Epstein or Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor by name, her words will likely be seen as a sign of support for women around the world who have been the victims of abuse.
“When we live in a culture of silence, we empower violence against women and girls,” she said.
The queen also called for more positive influences on young men and boys.
Queen Camilla’s plea against misogyny
“It is in the online space where boys and young men absorb many of the values they will carry through until adulthood.
“If misogyny and hatred are not confronted here and now, then we will face far greater issues in the future,” she stated.
Queen Camilla has been a vocal campaigner on the issue of violence against women and girls for many years.
She has visited women’s refuges and continued to speak out regarding the stigma of domestic violence.
Elsewhere, TV personality and author Miriam Margolyes was seen speaking to Queen Camilla during the gathering, where she made quite a surprising request.
Miriam Margolyes words for King Charles
Miriam greeted Camilla by stating: “Hello darling, how are you?”
She then asked the royal: “Will you tell His Majesty that we love him and we want him to get better and to take no notice of anyone who criticises him, because he’s just wonderful?”
The queen chuckled and gave Miriam a friendly pat on the shoulder before stating: “Yes, alright. I will bear that in mind.”
Miriam’s request comes as the royals are enduring major scrutiny due to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s alleged crimes.
On Monday, during the Commonwealth Day service, protesters outside Westminster Abbey held signs that read: “Charles, what did you know?”
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