Prince: ‘Racism has no place in our society’

LONDON – Prince William’s office said “racism has no place in our society” as he sought to prevent the backlash over his godmother’s treatment of a Black advocate for survivors of domestic abuse from overshadowing his trip to the United States.

Lady Susan Hussey, 83, resigned Wednesday as an honorary member of the royal household after the chief executive of a London women’s refuge said Hussey repeatedly asked her where she “really came from” after she told the older woman that she was British.

The exchange occurred at a Buckingham Palace reception for those working to end domestic violence.

“Racism has no place in our society,” his Kensington Palace office said. “These comments were unacceptable, and it’s right that the individual has stepped aside with immediate effect.”

The incident reignited allegations of “institutional racism” at the palace on the first day of the Prince and Princess of Wales’ visit to Boston.

Hussey was Queen Elizabeth II’s lady in waiting for more than 60 years and is one of William’s godmothers.