Prince Harry’s Earth Day Message Included A Heartfelt Tribute to Late Prince Philip

Apr 23, 2021 by apost team

In a heartfelt tribute to his late grandfather, Prince Harry released a statement to mark Earth Day, which was on April 22, 2021, in which he mentions his late grandfather. He also narrated for a video, which is a special re-release of the African Parks video "Hope Starts Here." This is the first time that Harry has released any statements about his grandfather since his return to the US on April 20, which was one day before his grandmother's 95th birthday.

Harry returned to the UK for the first time in over a year earlier in April 2021 after the death of Prince Philip. His return was highly publicized due to the high tension in the royal family following Harry and his wife Meghan Markle's controversial interview with Oprah Winfrey in March 2020. During the television special, the couple openly criticized the royal family and its culture. 

Philip was laid to rest in the Royal Vault at St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle on Saturday, April 17. The late prince was buried alongside former kings of England and other royals, the Associated Press reported. 

Even though the rift between Harry and his family has been highly publicized, it is clear that he was close to his grandfather. Both Harry and Philip had common passions and interests, and in many ways, Harry emulated his grandfather in his life. Philip's passing marked a difficult and sorrowful time for the family, but each person may find their own way to honor the steadfast Philip and his life. Harry's heartfelt tribute is one of the ways he is honoring his late grandfather. 

The official website of African Parks states that Prince Harry has served as the president of African Parks, which is a conservation NGO that manages 19 parks across 11 countries on behalf of governments and communities across Africa. He has been in this role since 2017, and through his work, he "highlights the importance of adequately resourcing National Parks and Protected Areas so they can deliver essential services like clean air and water, food security, carbon sequestration, jobs, education, and healthcare." 

In his statement, Harry said, "As we now begin to move towards an era of global recovery and regeneration, it’s critical that we continue to look at the strengthening and protecting of biodiversity, not just as a value we hold—but as a responsibility that is vital to our way of life." 

He continued, "On this Earth Day, I reflect on generations of conservation champions, including my late grandfather, and feel proud and energised to continue doing my part in this legacy."

He concluded his statement, "This year especially, I join the incredible African Parks team and communities around the world in shared dedication to our environment and collective wellbeing."

The Independent UK reports that Philip once said, "‘If nature doesn’t survive, neither will man." Philip had a passion for conservation throughout his life and held the position of president emeritus with WWF International until the day he died. The news outlet reports that "Prince Philip promoted conservation issues at the highest government and corporate levels, dedicating his voice, position and influence to raise awareness and funds for environmental causes across more than 50 years."

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From a young age, Prince Harry had similar interests to that of his grandfather, including hunting, riding, and serving his country. Both Harry and the late Philip had served in the military; Harry in the Army and Philip in the Royal Marines. In 2017, Prince Harry was made the Captain General of the Royal Marines, succeeding Prince Philip who had previously held the same position. 

When it comes to their relationship, Prince Harry and late Prince Philip were always close. Town And Country Magazine wrote, "Prince Philip has always got along well with his grandson Prince Harry, whose sporting abilities both with a gun and a polo pony he admired." 

Most recently, however, tensions have been running high in the royal family after Harry and Meghan sat down with Oprah Winfrey for a controversial interview in March. The interview was scheduled in light of another controversy — Harry and Meghan's decision to move to California and step back as senior royals. While there was some hope that the funeral might have provided a segue for the family to heal, only time will tell if the reported rift between the family has been addressed and worked through. 

Harry flew alone to the UK after his grandfather's death as his wife, Meghan Markle, was not able to attend Prince Philip's funeral. According to Insider, this is because Meghan did not receive medical clearance to fly due to being heavily pregnant. The couple is expecting their second child, a girl, who is due in the summer. The Mirror reports that Africa holds a special place in the couple's relationship, with Meghan's ring containing a diamond from Botswana.

What do you think of Harry's touching tribute to his late grandfather on Earth Day? Tell us what your thoughts are, and be sure to let your friends know about this sweet way to honor Philip.