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As the royal family entered Westminster Abbey on Commonwealth Day yesterday, they were met with protestors carrying signs reading “What Did You Know?” in reference to the allegations surrounding Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor (formerly Prince Andrew) and his association with Jeffrey Epstein.
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Anti-monarchy protester holds a placard reading “What Did You Know?” with a photograph of Andrew from the Epstein files.
Today, Queen Camilla gave a rare public address speaking about victims of sexual assault and rape, delivering remarks at St James’s Palace to mark International Women’s Day in her role as President of Women of the World (WOW) organization.
“Almost a third of women in England and Wales have endured domestic abuse. 1 in 4 women have been raped or sexually assaulted. And over 70% of women in the UK say that they have been harassed in public. Each of us is, therefore, certain either to have experienced some form of abuse personally, or know a woman or a girl who has,” she 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. We stand with you and alongside you, today and every day, in solidarity, sorrow and sympathy.”
She added, “Every woman has a story. And these stories must be told. Because when we live in a culture of silence, we empower violence against women and girls.”
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Queen Camilla, President of Women of the World (WOW), speaks during a reception at St James’s Palace to mark International Women’s Day.
Elsewhere in her speech, Camilla spoke of “misogyny and hatred” in the online space, and ended by quoting Gisèle Pelicot, calling on the audience to bring about “a collective awakening about education, respect and kindness towards others. It’s that simple.”
Her remarks were notable in light of the ongoing spotlight on her brother-in-law’s alleged misconduct and history with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, though Camilla has never spoken about former Prince Andrew directly. (Andrew has always denied any wrongdoing.) When King Charles stripped his brother of titles this past fall, Buckingham Palace said in a statement, “Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.” As a member of the royal family, Queen Camilla’s main areas of focus has been on violence against women, and advocating for victims of rape and sexual assault.
Another statement authored by King Charles was later shared in response to Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest. “What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities. In this, as I have said before, they have our full and wholehearted support and co-operation,” he wrote. The King continued, “Let me state clearly: the law must take its course. As this process continues, it would not be right for me to comment further on this matter. Meanwhile, my family and I will continue in our duty and service to you all.”
Emily Burack (she/her) is the Senior News Editor for Town & Country, where she covers entertainment, celebrities, the royals, and a wide range of other topics. Before joining T&C, she was the deputy managing editor at Hey Alma, a Jewish culture site. Follow her @emburack on Twitter and Instagram.