A black British charity executive who was asked where she was “really from” at a Buckingham Palace event has claimed she has faced “horrific abuse” on social media.
Ngozi Fulani, the CEO of Sistah Space, was questioned by Lady Susan Hussey, the late Queen’s lady-in-waiting, who has since stepped down as a Lady of the Household.
Ms Fulani described the event, which was part of the United Nations 16 Days of Activism to promote worldwide awareness of gender-based violence, as a “emotional whirlwind.”
Ms Fulani stated in a fresh statement posted on Monday that she and the employees at her foundation had been under “immense pressure.”
“I have experienced first-hand what happens when a black woman faces adversity and has to overcome additional barriers when trying to report it,” she said.
“This is at the heart of what we do at Sistah Space, and it has reiterated to me just how important work we do is.”
Ms Fulani said the last week was “extremely difficult” for her family and staff, but she was “heartened by the huge amount of support.”
“It has shown me that love will always triumph over hate,” she said in the statement.
“What took place at the event is now well documented, and sadly is something that occurs on an all too regular basis. Incidents like this not only cause emotional harm to those involved but do also have wider repercussions within the community.”
Ms Fulani said that she and her staff “wish to take the time to pause, reflect and learn from these events.”
“I remain dedicated to raising awareness around cultural competency, and will go to Buckingham Palace, or anywhere else, if it will help raise positive change and save lives,” she said.
The charity’s executive director said that the events of last week had “taken the focus away from day-to-day operations” of Sistah Space.
Lady Hussey, Prince William’s godmother, stepped down after the celebration last Tuesday.
Friends have now said that she wants to apologise to Ms. Fulani personally.
The offer comes after the Palace called Ms Fulani’s statements “unacceptable and deeply regrettable.”
Meanwhile, Prince William’s spokesperson said that “racism has no place in our society,” adding that “the comments were unacceptable.”
