Royal Statement on Andrew Viewed as 'Justification' for Virginia Giuffre, Says Relatives
This historic statement from Buckingham Palace stripping Prince Andrew of his title is seen as an "recognition" that events happened to the deceased Virginia Giuffre, her family have stated.
Through its statement on Thursday, the royal establishment 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 continue to cause public debate.
The statement concluded with: “Their majesties wish to make clear that their considerations and utmost empathy are and will continue to be with the victims and those who endured of any and all forms of mistreatment.”
Relatives Response: Acknowledgment and Justice
Questioned whether the statement implied that King Charles believes Virginia over Andrew, Giuffre's sibling Sky Roberts said: “Absolutely, I think that he’s speaking distinctly in that announcement when he says he’s with those affected out there.
“It’s an acknowledgment that something occurred, something has happened. We are witnessing a change,” he added.
Giuffre’s sister-in-law, Amanda Roberts, commented: “To put that acknowledgment out for victims is huge. We haven’t seen that from anyone, and to acknowledge that there are survivors in this case is an acknowledgment that wrongdoing did occur.
“It is the very first step for that resolution for those impacted. It is first the acknowledgment that something went on here. There was real trauma that affected these young girls.”
In a posthumous memoir, Giuffre – who died earlier this year – repeated allegations that, as a teenager, she had sex with the prince on multiple instances. The Duke has consistently refuted any misconduct. He resolved a legal dispute with Giuffre for a estimated £12m without accepting of responsibility.
Amanda characterized the statement by the royal family as a “victory” and “justification on behalf of our sister”.
“We’re just extremely proud of her, but then the sorrow strikes because one hopes she was here to share this moment alongside her – a time that she has been waiting for, for a very long time,” she continued.
Support Organizations React: Powerful Statement for Victims
Women’s rights campaigners and advocacy groups likewise applauded the move by the monarchy, with some saying it sent an vital message to those affected of abuse.
A representative, chief executive of Refuge, stated it was “highly impactful to see victims acknowledged so explicitly in a statement from the royal household”, noting that it sent a signal that “survivors matter, that their ordeals are believed, and that they merit to be at the center of national discussions about abuse”.
Another advocate, the director at the Fawcett Society, commented “it is a positive recognition that the real victims here are not discomfited officials or fallen royals, but the females who were abused by entitled, prejudiced men.”
Nonetheless, she added: “Stripping a title, or relocating can not be viewed as true accountability or adequate consequence. Indeed, one brave woman, Virginia Giuffre, has passed away. This was a devastating event, and a reminder of the profound impact abuse has on women and girls.”
Remembering Virginia Giuffre: A "Strong Warrior"
Portraying Giuffre’s personality and fight for justice, Sky expressed she was a “strong warrior” who could additionally be playful and goofy.
“This is an regular individual from an typical background that did something extraordinary and in my opinion this is something the world should be proud of.
“She was a tenacious fighter who refused to back down and refused to stay silent and we are finally getting that acknowledgment that she indeed represented a global icon.”
The palace offered no response.
