However, what has raised eyebrows is their expenditure, which exceeded their donations, with more than $55,000 allocated for legal fees related to the creation and dissolution of their previous charitable entities, Sussex Royal and the MWX Foundation. It's worth noting that the latter was renamed from Sussex Royal after Queen Elizabeth prohibited them from using the Royal name. Archewell also disclosed paying out $163,000 in salaries, but the tax filing revealed that Harry and Meghan contributed only one hour per week, or 52 hours per year, to the charity's efforts.
Furthermore, the CEO of Archewell, James Holt, received a yearly salary of $59,800 along with an additional $3,832 in benefits. It's noteworthy that Holt initially served as a board member of the charity without compensation before taking on the role of CEO.
The tax documents also unveiled a substantial anonymous donation of $10 million, out of a total of $13 million raised by Archewell in 2020. The identity and motives of this generous benefactor remain a mystery, leading to speculations that it could be a wealthy friend or business partner of the couple.
Archewell's mission statement revolves around uplifting and uniting communities, both locally and globally, through both online and offline means, one act of compassion at a time. However, the tax filing paints a different picture, as it indicates that the charity distributed only $3 million in grants to various causes, primarily focusing on refugee resettlement and COVID-19 vaccine distribution. Notably, Georgetown University emerged as the largest recipient of Archewell's grants, receiving $500,000 for a program named "Global Media and Misinformation."
Critics have raised concerns about Harry and Meghan's use of Archewell, suggesting it might be a front for money laundering and tax evasion, as well as a platform for promoting their political agenda and personal branding. Questions have also arisen regarding their choice of incorporating Archewell in Delaware, known for its business-friendly laws and low taxes, often attracting businesses seeking to conceal their financial activities and evade scrutiny from authorities.
Since leaving the UK in 2020, Harry and Meghan have resided in a $14 million mansion in Montecito, California. They've assembled a team of lawyers, publicists, and agents to manage their image and business ventures, becoming embroiled in multiple lawsuits and disputes with the media, the royal family, and former staff. Their popularity and credibility have taken a hit, especially in the UK, where they are viewed by some as traitors and opportunists.
Their controversial interview with Oprah Winfrey, during which they made unsubstantiated claims against the royal family, received widespread criticism. Archewell's tax filing further casts doubt on their transparency, accountability, and the true intentions behind their charity and media deals. This revelation leaves us pondering whether they genuinely aim to make a positive impact on the world or if Archewell serves as a cover for potentially dubious financial activities such as money laundering and tax evasion.
