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The Prince and Princess of Wales paid their respects to the military with a very modest appearance at Remembrance Sunday, an annual event that in 2023 elicited a powerful and polarized public reaction. The royal family’s participation was seen by many as a sign of respect, but a considerable portion of the response was very negative and revealed the existing conflicts regarding the monarchy’s role in contemporary Britain.
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Along with a formal photograph, the couple sent the following message: ‘On Remembrance Sunday we stop for a moment to remember the amazing courage and the sacrifice of every one who has been and still is fighting for our freedoms. We do not forget them, today and forever.’ The post indeed was the center of the national day of reflection that comprised the ceremonies at the Cenotaph in London and across the UK.
Nonetheless, the remembrance gesture was criticized, with left-wing people being the main critics. One social media user was very rude and straightforward in his comment, saying, ‘Piss You off. You are Leaches. You don’t care one dam for this Country.’ Another person made a similar comment, saying, ‘I lost all respect for your family when the Queen died. You are all just fakes.’ Even the day’s ceremonies received criticism, for instance, ‘But not one Royal watched the veterans walk by the Cenotaph,’ remark making it look as if the Royals had disrespected the veterans.
Among the monarchy’s critics were those who supported them vehemently and demanded the royal family’s immediate defense. A supporter said, ‘So dignified the Wales and the royal family,’ while another comment was, ‘Beautiful you all look stunning.’ The supportive comments may still be there, however, they got drowned out by discontent that constantly linked the symbols of the day to larger political and social matters. One of the issues that frequently came up was questioning the reason behind the remembrance of the sacrifice. ‘For what? What did they die for?’ was one question posed in a very straightforward and aggressive manner. ‘People to be arrested for FB posts? Indian and Muslim invasion?’
This line of questioning was even extended by another user who correlated the historical sacrifice with the contemporary political discontent. ‘Well, my great grandfather died in WW1, and my family has a great connection to the military in WW2,’ the user wrote. ‘But if my dad was alive today, he would feel ashamed and very shocked at that line-up of traitorous politicians standing there today and what they have imposed on us.’ This comment indicates that there is a perception among the people that the current ruling power is a betrayal of the values their ancestors fought for.
In another instance, criticism was ascribed to a perceived double standard when one user suggested, ‘Your government is eroding our freedoms! Your government tried to freeze these people last winter while you were living in luxury!’ This declaration underscores the fact that the royal family’s ceremonial role is often closely related to the actions of the current government in the public’s eye, thus creating a complicated situation where both accountability and blame are involved.
While political discussions were going on, some comments were more philosophical and even pessimistic. One person posted a definition from the dictionary: ‘A parasite is an organism that derives nourishment at the expense of the host and causes harm. This symbiosis is detrimental to the host but advantageous to the parasite. A parasite is a non-contributor and gives nothing in return.’ This extreme analogy highlights the depth of anti-monarchist sentiments that might become apparent during national events.
Nevertheless, the primary feeling of the day, sadness and gratitude, was shared by many people. One very simple and heartfelt comment cut through all the other discussions: ‘I always cry, we should never forget their sacrifice.’ This user has reminded of the main purpose of the day which, however, was also the gift of another user. The latter one, however, expressed concern that the purpose was fading, ‘It’s too bad that, when I was going through town today, I could hardly see anyone wearing a poppy. It seems that ‘lest we forget’ has turned into ‘at last we forget’.’
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The public reaction to the royal family’s Remembrance Sunday post, which was very disparate, indicates more than just varied opinions on one event. It can be seen as a poll that reflects the monarchy’s popularity in modern, politically charged times. Once, the tradition of paying respect to the war dead was a unifying national moment; now it also serves as a controversy point for discussions about national identity, government policy, and the relevance of the crown itself. The mixed response is an indication of the difficult road the monarchy must follow if it is to keep its ceremonial status in a society that is increasingly divided by loyalties and viewpoints. The day of remembrance, which was intended to be quiet and reflective, was instead filled with the loud and opposing voices of a nation that is still trying to come to terms with its identity. Prince William and Kate Middleton have faced various public reactions to their engagements. For instance, Prince William also recently attended a sporting event. However, not all their appearances are met with universal approval, as seen when the couple faced backlash for a trip.
