JFG, which has received special recognition from the United Nations Economic and Social Council, recognized Meghan's advocacy for girls' and women's rights. During their initial visit in January 2020, Meghan received a custom-made gold and diamond pendant as a donation from local jeweler Holly Bin and his team, who are members of the First Nations tribe. On that occasion, Meghan's visit was marked by a sense of comfort and ease, as noted by Zoe Craig Sparrow, a core member of JFG.
However, during her visit in 2023, Meghan chose not to wear the custom pendant, opting for alternative jewelry instead. This decision raised questions about the pendant's whereabouts and led to speculations regarding Meghan's commitment to feminist principles and her relationship with the organization. Some drew parallels between this incident and one where Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, wore earrings presented by a mother on Mental Health Day. Meghan's apparent disregard for the symbolic pendant raised concerns about potential offense to the indigenous jeweler and the girls involved with JFG. Furthermore, it raised doubts about Meghan's commitment to her indigenous partners for the forthcoming Invictus Games in 2025.
It's important to note that instead of showcasing her engagement jewelry, Meghan displayed a pink diamond ring during her visit, which some critics interpreted as a lack of understanding of the significance of wearing jewelry and accessories acquired or gifted during visits to local communities with whom she collaborates. This stands in contrast to the royal family's traditional practice of using fashion and accessories to convey respect and strengthen diplomatic ties, as exemplified by the late Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip, and their descendants who partake in similar customs.
Meghan Markle's long-term commitment to organizations like JFG has come under scrutiny, with skeptics alleging that she uses such visits as photo opportunities rather than substantial engagements. This approach differs from the royal family's customary use of fashion and accessories to signify esteem and cultivate diplomatic relationships.
Meanwhile, Meghan Markle is facing criticism and allegations of manipulating her unofficial mouthpiece, Omid Scobie, who is known for his association with the couple. Commentator Matthew Lass expressed concerns about the situation, suggesting that Meghan may not be serving her interests well by briefing Scobie, as it appears desperate. Lass also noted that the release of royal biographies tends to follow a pattern of diminishing returns.
In the context of Omid Scobie's upcoming book, "End Game," it is billed as a penetrating investigation into the current state of the British monarchy, highlighting an unpopular king, a power-hungry heir to the throne, a queen willing to go to great lengths to preserve her image, and a prince forced to start a new life after being betrayed by his own family.
