King Harald has spoken out on the racism towards his future son-in-law, Durek Verrett, in a new statement, calling the abuse something the Norwegian Royal Family strongly opposes.
As part of a longer statement officially ending Princess Märtha Louise’s royal duties—she will retain her title but will step back from responsibilities and relinquish her patronages—King Harald dedicated a section to condemn the racism experienced by Verrett since he became romantically involved with the Princess.
“We are very pleased that The Princess has gotten engaged and want Durek Verrett to feel welcome in our family,” King Harald said.
The monarch added that “the situation we as a family have faced recently has highlighted issues that are complex and that have many different aspects that we seek to take into account.”
King Harald said: “We are also concerned about being able to live well together, despite inequality. The racist attitudes Durek Verrett has been subjected to, especially on social media, we strongly oppose. It is a strength that the Royal Family reflects the ethnic diversity that exists in Norway.
“It can be difficult to understand how direct or indirect, conscious or unconscious racism can be experienced, for those of us who are not in it ourselves. Unfortunately, there are many in Norway today who experience discrimination and racism.
“We must work together to put an end to this.”
Discussing the role Norway plays in the conversation, King Harald said that the country and its people have “created a society built on knowledge and research, on freedom of expression—and on a steady expansion of the Norwegian ‘we’ as our society has become more diverse” and that it is important that the country continues this work.
“We want a society where there is room for each and every one in a generous community and where we meet each other with respect. This applies both in our close relationships and in the larger society we create together,” the King said.
The Norwegian Royal Family, King Harald said, is rooted in safeguarding the trust of the Norwegian people while also balancing the needs of the family, but that “the boundaries of what one can say and do while representing the Royal Family, have been questioned and challenged” and this is why his daughter’s role and title have been clarified.
