This week, a face-to-face meeting, amends and a promise took place at Buckingham Palace.
Lady Susan Hussey apologised in person to charity founder Ngozi Fulani after an incident last month at a reception at Buckingham Palace.
Hussey repeatedly asked Fulani where she was from. Born in the UK, Fulani has African and Caribbean heritage and commented she felt “violated” by the questioning and the need to justify her background.
Recounting the incident, Fulani never named the person, but it was quickly determined it was Lady Susan Hussey. Hussey was a lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth II and part of Queen Camilla’s household. Hussey expressed her regret and resigned from her position shortly after the incident.
During the meeting between the two parties, Hussey once again reiterated her goal to “deepen her awareness of the sensitivities involved and is grateful for the opportunity to learn more about the issues in this area.” The meeting was described as warm and “full of understanding,” with Hussey offering her sincere condolences to Fulani.
The statement from the palace adds that Fulani accepted the apology and “appreciates that no malice was intended.”
They also reference the amount of social media abuse Fulani has endured because of the experience.
Both parties wish that attention can return to the vital work of Fulani’s charity, Sistah Space, a group dedicated to helping African and Caribbean women who are dealing with domestic violence.
King Charles, Queen Camilla and the Royal Family have been kept informed of the events and are happy with the end result. The Buckingham Palace statement adds: “The Royal Households will continue their focus on inclusion and diversity, with an enhanced programme of work which will extend knowledge and training programmes, examining what can be learnt from Sistah Space, and ensuring these reach all members of their communities.”
Fulani and Hussey have both requested privacy to “rebuild their lives.”
They add, “They hope that their example shows a path to resolution can be found with kindness, co-operation and the condemnation of discrimination wherever it takes root.”
After the meeting, Fulani tweeted: “SISTAH SPACE want to say a massive thank you to all who have supported us through these difficult few weeks. We really appreciate your unwaivering [sic] love and kindness. Together we are stronger, hate will never win STILL I RISE Thank you”.
