The Sussexes Speak of Building "Communities Of Compassion" for Time 100 Special

In a special appearance for the unveiling of Time's annual list of 100 most influential and inspiring people of the year, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex shared an uplifting message of congratulations to the winners in additions to an important message for viewers on ABC. The participation of the couple tonight follows their inclusion on 2018's Time 100 list "in recognition of their global growing influence". As alumni of the prestigious list, the Sussexes shared a video filmed in their garden in Montecito (you'll notice Pula walking by).

Meghan touched on the importance of good communities and how "seeing our world through the lens of community is so important because we need to redraw the lines of how we engage with each other - both online and off. Good neighbours look out for each other, protect each other and keep each other safe. Good neighbours also ensure that we are informed with facts and not fiction about our communities and the issues that affect us". Harry spoke about the power and influence of the online world and the damage platforms can do: "When one person buys into negativity online, the effects are felt exponentially. It’s time to not only reflect, but act." Harry added: "Some of the world’s greatest issues are being inflamed by the online space, you realize you need to do something. Tonight reminds us of how important it is to watch out for each other, to care for each other, and to inspire each other."

The Duchess shared her hopes we'll all build "communities of compassion". The video featured a memorable photo from Meghan's visit to a school in Dagenham in March. On the day, the Duchess stood on stage to address seven hundred students and there was a very memorable moment when she made a specific request: "Before I continue I’m going to go off the cuff here, because I do think what’s really key is there is one brave young man in this room who wants to come and say what he thinks the importance of International Women’s Day is." 16-year-old Aker Okoye was among a number of boys who raised their hands before Meghan chose him. Needless to say he was very pleased. He greeted the Duchess, followed by cheers from his classmates. His first words before explaining his thoughts on the importance of equality? "She's really beautiful innit."

Coinciding with National Voter Day the couple spoke on the upcoming election. "We are six weeks out from election day, and today is National Voter Registration Day. Every four years, we’re told, ‘This is the most important election of our lifetime.' But this one is." Referencing the impact of those on the list, Meghan added: "Let’s honour those who gave us courage this year. Like the scientists, researchers, and medical professionals who are leading the fight against COVID-19. Or the countless voices who are speaking out with passion and purpose against injustice and inequality, and to those silently marching in solidarity, in peaceful protest, to stand for what is just and what is right." It comes as Gloria Steinem revealed her friendship with Meghan began when the Duchess visited her and they "cold called" voters. Ms Steinem described the Duchess as "smart and authentic".

"When we vote our values are put into action, and our voices are heard." - The Duchess of Sussex.

Prince Harry added "this election" he will not be able to vote in the US and said: "Many of you may not know I haven't been able to vote in the UK my entire life. As we approach this November, it’s vital that we reject hate speech, misinformation, and online negativity. What we consume, what we are exposed to, and what we engage with online, has a real effect on all of us. Tonight reminds us of how important it is to watch out for each other; to care. We are incredibly proud to join you in this historic moment in time."

This year's Time 100 list includes an array of "pioneers, artists, leaders, icons and titans who have had the most impact this year".

Black Lives Matters Founders Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors and Opal Tometi were included on the list. 

Sybrina Fulton wrote:

'I first heard about the Black Lives Matter movement the year my son Trayvon was killed. It wasn’t on a national level yet. It was just something that people were saying in our circles. To know that Patrisse Cullors and Alicia Garza and Opal Tometi were out there organizing this movement—I felt supported and encouraged.

There are only three of them, but they are everywhere. They are getting people to think: What if you had a 17-year-old son in a hoodie, and no weapon, just a candy and a drink, and now he’s dead on the ground? What if your daughter was sleeping in her own bed and the police knocked down the door and killed her? How would you feel? That is what “Black Lives Matter” asks.

The moment that I was going through my own tragedy, the same things were happening with Eric Garner, Mike Brown, Tamir Rice, Jordan Davis, Dontre Hamilton and Oscar Grant. I’m in a circle with all of their families, and we continue to lift one another up. And it continues to happen—to George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and more.

But this year feels different. Since the video came out of the brutal killing of George Floyd, people are actually witnessing what African Americans have been going through most of our lives. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it. Once you feel the pain in your chest, you can’t unfeel that pain. I’m glad to see there are more young people getting involved, more nationalities, more races—the protests are now a rainbow of people from all walks of life, in different countries, joining and saying, “Black lives do matter.”

This is about human lives. We want people to support us, stand with us, write a letter, speak to your local officials, join a rally. Do something. Make sure people are hearing your voice saying, “Black lives matter.” We can’t give up. Patrisse, Alicia and Opal won’t.'

The Duchess selected a casual look featuring separates and familiar shoes and accessories. The eagle-eyed What Meghan Wore suggests Meghan wore a silk shirt by Victoria Beckham. The piece is described: "Notice the sharply pointed collar and rich mahogany-brown hue that makes you just want to complete the look with flares and platforms. That's so 70s, indeed. Featuring a pointed collar and a concealed front button placket."

Meghan accessorised with her Cartier Love Bracelet.

And Monica Vinader Linear Chain Bracelet.

Meghan wore her Manolo Blahnik BB pumps in black suede.

As Time honours those who have used their influence for positive change this year, we lost a legend who spent her life fighting for exactly that. In a tribute to the inimitable Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the Duchess shared the following statement "With an incomparable and indelible legacy, Ruth Bader Ginsburg will forever be known as a woman of brilliance, a Justice of courage, and a human of deep conviction. She has been a true inspiration to me since I was a girl. Honour her, remember her, act for her."