The Queen was surrounded by family as she marked Commonwealth Day today at a service at Westminster Abbey, including The Duke and Duchess of Sussex for their final royal engagement.
Joined by The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, and the Earl and Countess of Wessex, The Queen watched as Commonwealth residents gave speeches and performed under the theme of “Delivering a Common Future: Connecting, Innovating, Transforming.
The theme was announced by the Royal Commonwealth Society back in January as one of diversity due to the 54 Commonwealth countries that work together “through extensive and deep-rooted networks of friendship and goodwill,” according to its website.
Embed from Getty Images“Together, the countries and people of the Commonwealth tackle climate change and its impacts. We work to find sustainable ways of using the natural resources of our planet, its land and ocean so that our environment is protected.
“Together, we work to build peace and harmony through social and democratic development.
“Together, we encourage inclusive economic empowerment and fair trade so that all people, particularly women, young people and those in marginalised communities can share the fruits of progress and prosperity.
“Together, we are delivering a common future by connecting, innovating and transforming our societies.”
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The Queen’s Commonwealth Day message touched upon this diversity:
“On Commonwealth occasions, it is always inspiring to be reminded of the diversity of the people and countries that make up our worldwide family. We are made aware of the many associations and influences that combine through Commonwealth connection, helping us to imagine and deliver a common future.
“This is particularly striking when we see people from nations, large and small, gathering for the Commonwealth Games, for meetings of Commonwealth governments, and on Commonwealth Day. Such a blend of traditions serves to make us stronger, individually and collectively, by providing the ingredients needed for social, political and economic resilience.”
The Commonwealth Day Service was notable for another reason: this was the last official royal engagement for Harry and Meghan as they prepare to step back as senior members of the Royal Family at the end of the month.
The Royal Family listened as boxing heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua gave a speech about the diversity of the Commonwealth; and listened to performances by West-End star Alexandra Burke, One Drum, London-based African drummers and performers, and singer-songwriter Craig David.
Among the guests in attendance were the Commonwealth’s Secretary-General, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his fiancée, leaders from various Commonwealth nations, faith leaders, and schoolchildren. On their way into Westminster Abbey, attendees were treated to a mini-performance from the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
The Queen’s message finished: “As members of this very special community, on this Commonwealth Day, I hope that the people and countries of the Commonwealth will be inspired by all that we share, and move forward with fresh resolve to enhance the Commonwealth’s influence for good in our world.”
