Royal Announcement on Andrew Viewed as 'Justification' for Virginia Giuffre, Says Her Family
This momentous statement from Buckingham Palace removing Andrew Mountbatten Windsor of his title is seen as an "recognition" that events happened to the late Virginia Giuffre, relatives have stated.
In its announcement on Thursday, the palace said that the Duke of York – as he is now known – will also vacate his mansion in Windsor, Royal Lodge, as his links to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein persist in generating controversy.
Their announcement ended with: “The King and Queen aim to emphasize that their considerations and utmost empathy have been and will remain with the affected individuals and those who endured of every forms of abuse.”
Relatives Reaction: Acknowledgment and Justice
Questioned whether this suggested that the monarch trusts Virginia rather than Andrew, Giuffre's sibling Sky Roberts said: “Absolutely, I think that his words convey distinctly in that statement when he says he’s with survivors out there.
“It’s an admission that events took place, incidents transpired. We are witnessing a change,” he added.
Giuffre’s sister-in-law, Amanda Roberts, commented: “To put that acknowledgment out for victims is significant. It's unprecedented that from anyone, and recognizing that there are survivors in this situation is an acknowledgment that wrongdoing did occur.
“This represents the initial step for that justice for those impacted. It is first the admission that something went on here. There was genuine suffering that affected these young girls.”
Through a posthumous memoir, Giuffre – who passed away recently – reiterated claims that, as a teenager, she had sex with the prince on multiple instances. The Duke has always denied any misconduct. He resolved a civil case with Giuffre for a reported £12m without accepting of responsibility.
Amanda described the statement by the royal family as a “triumph” and “justification on behalf of our sister”.
“We’re just so exceptionally admiring of her, but then the sadness strikes because you wish she could be present to share this occasion together with her – a time that she has been anticipating, for a very long time,” she added.
Advocacy Groups Respond: Significant Message for Victims
Gender equality campaigners and advocacy groups also welcomed the decision by the royal family, with some saying it sent an vital signal to those affected of abuse.
Gemma Sherrington, chief executive of Refuge, said it was “incredibly powerful to see victims recognised so explicitly in a announcement from the palace”, adding that it sent a message that “victims are important, that their ordeals are trusted, and that they merit to be at the heart of national discussions about abuse”.
Penny East, the chief executive at the Fawcett Society, commented “it is a welcome acknowledgment that the true sufferers here are not discomfited officials or disgraced princes, but the females who were abused by privileged, prejudiced men.”
However, she added: “Stripping a title, or relocating can not be considered genuine responsibility or sufficient punishment. In fact, one brave woman, Virginia Giuffre, has passed away. It was a devastating event, and a indication of the deep effect sexual assault has on women and girls.”
Remembering Virginia Giuffre: A "Strong Warrior"
Describing Giuffre’s character and pursuit of truth, Sky expressed she was a “strong warrior” who could also be playful and goofy.
“This is an regular individual from an ordinary family that did something remarkable and in my opinion that is something the global community should be proud of.
“She was this strong warrior who refused to back down and refused to stay silent and now we are finally receiving that acknowledgment that she indeed represented a global icon.”
Royal officials declined to comment.
