Meghan Markle Interrupted by Transgender Rights Heckler During Major Speech In Colombia

Meghan Markle’s speech on female empowerment at the Afro Women and Power conference on Sunday faced an unexpected disruption. The Duchess of Sussex, who was accompanied by her husband, Prince Harry, delivered her remarks at the Enrique Buenaventura Municipal Theater, speaking in both English and Spanish.

Markle, 43, praised Colombia’s Vice President Francia Marquez, who is the country’s first black vice president and hosted the Sussexes. Referring to Marquez as “my friend,” Meghan lauded her efforts in inspiring future generations. During her speech, Markle highlighted the significance of empowering women and the role of men in supporting this cause.

The event took a turn when an audience member interrupted Marquez’s speech with a question concerning transgender rights. Marquez addressed the query by affirming the inclusive nature of her program, which supports all women, including transgender women. The heckler was allowed to stay for the remainder of the event after sitting down.

In her address, Meghan expressed gratitude for her husband’s support, noting how their joint efforts extend into their work with the Archewell Foundation. She emphasized the importance of men playing a supportive role in empowering women, stating that this support should start from a young age and continue into adulthood. She also spoke about their three-year-old daughter, Lilibet, noting her emerging sense of self.

Markle reflected on her own experiences, sharing that part of her role as a mother is to model behaviors that encourage her daughter to use her voice confidently. “Creating an environment where young girls feel heard and valued is essential,” she said, adding that this mindset should also extend to boys and adults.

The Duchess also paid tribute to her mother, Doria Ragland, as a significant source of inspiration. She described feeling at ease and liberated during the trip, attributing this comfort to the welcoming nature of Colombian culture.

The Susexes have been plagued by staff turnover at their foundation in recent months, including the resignation of their chief of staff shortly before the Colombia trip.