Why the People of Sussex May Not Feel a Bond with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex
In recent years, discussions about local feelings towards the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, have gained traction. However, it is essential to clarify a potential misperception—there is no direct link between the historic or modern administrative regions of Sussex and their royal titles.
The Absence of Historical Connection
It is clear that the modern ceremonial county of Sussex, whether divided into East Sussex and West Sussex, does not have any connection to the Dukedom of Sussex. Similarly, other cities such as Cambridge, Edinburgh, and York host their respective duchies, but these do not apply to Sussex. This fact underscores the importance of careful interpretation when discussing these connections.
Public Opinion and Petitions
Surveys and local opinions indicate that many residents in Sussex are opposed to having Harry and Meghan as their Duke and Duchess. They express strong feelings against the connection and advocate for its removal.
One notable moment was a petition presented to the Brighton and Hove City Council in December 2019. This petition called for the city council to stop providing official hospitality to royal or aristocratic titles and to avoid using these titles in official documents. While the petition garnered approximately 4,000 signatures, the city council deemed it insufficiently representative of the 1.8 million people living in Sussex. The council also highlighted that the matter was beyond their jurisdiction, as they had more pressing issues such as homelessness, the climate crisis, and austerity measures.
The Nature of Aristocracy and Royal Titles
Aristocracy operates on principles where titles and roles are assigned by tradition and precedent, not by public sentiment or opinion. Therefore, local residents do not get to decide who represents them or their areas.
While individuals may find this state of affairs disheartening, transitioning to a republic might offer a solution. The concept of a republic where all citizens are equal, and no one grovels to a lord, is a radical but potentially effective model. However, this shift would require significant societal and political changes.
The Future of Local Feelings and Titles
As the royal family evolves, it is crucial to recognize and respect the opinions of local communities. Despite the petition and public sentiment, regional identities will continue to evolve independent of royal titles. The focus on local issues such as housing, climate change, and economic wellbeing will remain paramount.
Conclusion
The connection between Sussex and Harry and Meghan as Duke and Duchess is more a matter of historical tradition than local sentiment. The community is vocal about its disapproval, but the nature of the aristocracy means their concerns may not change the status quo. For those seeking a more democratic system, the idea of a republic could be a compelling alternative.