Royal Statement on Prince Andrew Viewed as 'Vindication' for Giuffre, Says Her Family
This historic statement from Buckingham Palace removing Prince Andrew of his title is regarded as an "acknowledgment" that events happened to the late Virginia Giuffre, relatives have expressed.
Through its statement on Thursday, the royal establishment indicated that the Duke of York – as he is now known – will additionally leave his residence in Windsor, Royal Lodge, since his links to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein persist in generating public debate.
Their announcement ended with: “Their majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and deepest empathy are and will continue to be with the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.”
Relatives Response: Acknowledgment and Justice
Questioned whether this suggested that the monarch trusts Virginia rather than Andrew, her brother Sky Roberts said: “Without a doubt, I think that he’s speaking distinctly in that statement when he says he’s with those affected out there.
“It’s an admission that events took place, something has happened. We are witnessing a shift,” he added.
Giuffre’s sister-in-law, Amanda Roberts, commented: “Issuing such recognition out for survivors is significant. It's unprecedented that from other parties, and recognizing that there are survivors in this situation is an affirmation that wrongdoing did occur.
“It is the initial step for that justice for those impacted. It is first the acknowledgment that something went on here. This involved genuine suffering that affected these young girls.”
Through a book published after her death, Giuffre – who died recently – reiterated claims that, in her youth, she had intimate relations with the prince on three separate occasions. He has always denied any misconduct. He resolved a legal dispute with Giuffre for a reported £12m with no admission 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 sorrow strikes because you wish she was here to share this occasion together with her – a time that she has been waiting for, for a considerable period,” she added.
Support Organizations Respond: Powerful Statement for Survivors
Gender equality advocates and advocacy groups likewise applauded the decision by the royal family, with several indicating it sent an important message to those affected of abuse.
Gemma Sherrington, chief executive of Refuge, stated it was “incredibly powerful to see victims recognised so directly in a announcement from the palace”, noting that it sent a message that “survivors matter, that their ordeals are trusted, and that they deserve to be at the center of national discussions about mistreatment”.
Penny East, the director at the Fawcett Society, said “it is a positive acknowledgment that the real victims here are not discomfited officials or fallen royals, but the women and girls who were sexually assaulted by entitled, prejudiced men.”
However, she continued: “Stripping a honor, or moving house can not be viewed as true accountability or adequate consequence. In fact, one brave woman, Virginia Giuffre, has passed away. It was a devastating event, and a indication of the profound impact abuse has on female victims.”
Remembering Virginia Giuffre: A "Resolute Fighter"
Describing Giuffre’s personality and pursuit of truth, Sky expressed she was a “determined advocate” who could additionally be playful and humorous.
“This is an regular individual from an typical background that achieved something extraordinary and in my opinion that is something the world should be admiring of.
“Giuffre was a tenacious fighter who refused to back down and refused to stay silent and now we are at last getting that acknowledgment that she indeed represented a world hero.”
The palace offered no response.
