Meghan Markle Discusses Stereotypes and Empowerment with Z-Way and Issa Rae

In a recent episode of her popular archetypes podcast, Meghan Markle delved into the topic of stereotypes alongside actress and comedian Z-Way and Insecure star Issa Rae.

The trio engaged in a raw and candid conversation about the “angry black woman” stereotype that often affects women of color.

During the discussion, Markle shared her own experiences of being labeled as “particular” and why she chooses to interpret it as a compliment.

She reflected on a recent show where she discovered her own control freak tendencies and how she embraced them as part of her unique perspective.

Markle expressed admiration for creatives who possess a strong sense of what they want, acknowledging that she too strives to have a clear point of view.

The Duchess of Sussex also addressed another term frequently used to describe her: “difficult.”

Former royal aides and the British media often portrayed her in this light during her time in the UK.

Markle admitted that she sometimes finds herself tiptoeing into a room, feeling the need to justify her presence.

She highlighted the tendency to end sentences with an upward inflection, as if seeking validation.

Markle encouraged women to be assertive and unapologetic, emphasizing that setting boundaries and being clear does not make one demanding or difficult.

The conversation struck a chord with Issa Rae, who shared her own experiences of feeling judged for expressing her needs or preferences.

Both women acknowledged the societal pressure on women to soften their requests, often resorting to phrases like “Is it okay?”

or “Do you mind if?”

to avoid being labeled negatively.

They discussed the double standards faced by women, where expressing oneself with confidence can lead to shock and surprise from others.

Markle and Rae expressed frustration at the need for women to modify their communication styles to conform to male expectations.

They referenced the viral memes of women rewriting emails to sound more like men, highlighting the ongoing struggle faced by women in various professional settings.

The conversation ultimately shed light on the importance of challenging stereotypes and empowering women to embrace their voices and assertiveness.

Markle, Z-Way, and Rae emphasized the need for a shift in societal perceptions, where women are not penalized for expressing themselves authentically.

They encouraged women to break free from the fear of being labeled as “difficult” or “demanding” and to embrace their true selves.

In conclusion, the thought-provoking discussion between Meghan Markle, Z-Way, and Issa Rae highlighted the challenges faced by women in combating stereotypes.

The conversation served as a reminder of the importance of empowerment and authenticity, urging women to reclaim their voices without fear of judgment or negative labels.