Archewell Foundation Responds to Criticism With Powerful New Message on Child Safety
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Foundation Shifts Focus Amid Funding Controversy
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Archewell Foundation has released a meaningful update following backlash surrounding its recent decision to withdraw funding from a nonprofit organization. The foundation, which was launched in 2020 to champion humanitarian causes, is now pivoting public attention toward its core advocacy—online safety for children.
Archewell Highlights Advocacy Work in Digital Child Protection
In a message released Wednesday, Archewell spotlighted its partnership with the Social Media Victims Law Center (SMVLC), emphasizing the urgent need to protect children from harm in the digital space.
“The Archewell Foundation celebrates a powerful example of progress made possible by our partners at SMVLC and the courageous families they represent—families who have turned personal tragedy into a moment for justice and accountability in the digital space,” the statement read.
The foundation also called on leaders across sectors to proactively support legislation and safeguards to ensure online environments are safe for young users.
Controversy Sparked Over Defunding Muslim Charity
The statement follows a period of scrutiny after Archewell withdrew support from the Muslim Women’s Coalition, citing the need to respect all of its partners and honor its responsibility to donors. The decision came after the organization’s founder, Janan Najeeb, published an op-ed calling for peace amid global conflict.
Archewell's move sparked a wave of criticism online, with commentators questioning the foundation's values and consistency in supporting women-led, peace-driven initiatives.
Janan Najeeb's Response Challenges Archewell’s Decision
In response, Janan Najeeb publicly criticized Archewell’s decision, accusing the foundation of contradicting its stated mission of empowerment and justice.
“There is painful irony in this decision,” Najeeb wrote. “It came after a woman leader voiced a call for peace—not war. Who you fund is your decision, but we urge you to retract the defamatory remarks and issue a public apology—not to preserve our reputation, but your own.”
Her statement emphasized the lasting impact of the decision and urged the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to reconsider their stance in the spirit of accountability.
Conclusion: Archewell Foundation Looks to Regain Public Trust
While the Archewell Foundation’s recent actions have stirred debate, its renewed focus on child safety in digital spaces reflects an effort to recenter its mission and reaffirm its commitment to justice. As Prince Harry and Meghan Markle navigate the challenges of high-profile philanthropy, the response to future initiatives will likely shape public perception moving forward.
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