Meghan Markle's recent action at the Invictus Games has stirred controversy online.
A video showing Meghan Markle moving the wheelchair of a Team Canada member without seeking consent has sparked significant criticism on social media, Daily Mail reported.
During a pre-event gathering for the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, Meghan, aged 43, along with her husband Prince Harry, aged 40, attended a breakfast hosted by the True Patriot Love Foundation. The couple was there to meet and interact with Team Canada participants.
The incident in question occurred when Meghan seemingly adjusted a wheelchair user's position during a group photo setup. This was done without visibly asking for permission from the wheelchair user.
The action was captured on video and later shared on Meghan’s personal Instagram account. The footage shows the wheelchair user pausing her conversation as Meghan moved her closer to the group.
Reacting to the video, several social media users expressed their disapproval. The general sentiment highlighted the importance of personal space and autonomy for individuals who use wheelchairs.
Comments on the video, especially from platform X, ranged from concerns about privacy and respect to outright anger. "My daughter is in a wheelchair, and someone else trying to move it is a huge NO!" explained one user.
Another comment read, "Their wheelchair is an extension of themselves. Meghan is in her personal space and needs to stop." This understanding of personal space and respect for autonomy is a cornerstone in the advocacy for the rights of disabled individuals.
Further adding to the online discourse, users continued to share their personal experiences and observations. "I've had that happen; it's very rude to presume you can just push someone without asking if they require assistance, disabled doesn't mean dumb," shared another user.
Some users questioned the necessity of Meghan's intervention, reflecting on the independence that many wheelchair users maintain. "'Is that woman in the wheelchair an athlete? Why does she need to be pushed?'" questioned a social media user, highlighting the lack of necessity for such actions.
Potent reactions included remarks on other event attendees' responses: "Some of the onlookers look horrified too," indicating that Meghan's actions were also uncomfortable for witnesses.
This incident also opens up broader discussions about perceptions and etiquette when interacting with people who use wheelchairs, suggesting a need for more extensive public awareness and sensitivity training.
Judi James, a body language expert, not only commented on this incident but also related it to how Meghan conducted herself during the opening ceremony of the games. James observed Meghan's enthusiastic behavior, pointing out it as a display of unity and support for Prince Harry amidst external criticisms, notably from U.S. President Donald Trump.
"When he made his derogatory comments about Harry and Meghan, Meghan's body language response seemed to be 'Hold my coat' as she put on one of the most emphatic sets of bonding and adoration rituals ever," James explained.
This type of analysis helps to understand the contrast between Meghan's public persona during official engagements and personal reactions in more informal settings.
Instances like these not only reflect personal moments but also shape public discussions about disability rights and celebrity responsibilities. Meghan’s actions, whether intentional or not, have led to a discourse about the right ways celebrities can interact with the public, especially vulnerable populations.
As the backlash continues, this incident serves as a reminder of the continuous need for awareness and education on how to properly interact with individuals using assistive devices, emphasizing respect and consent.
Ongoing discussions could potentially influence the outcome of this event, setting a precedent for how society expects celebrities to behave in diverse social situations.
