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Harry and Meghan's use of the Invictus Games for image rehabilitation has been criticized by many. While the Games aim to honor wounded veterans, some argue Harry and Meghan have turned it into a platform to promote themselves.
The Invictus Games were founded in 2014 by Prince Harry to celebrate the rehabilitation of injured armed forces veterans through sports. William, Charles, and Kate were also influential in establishing the event. However, in recent years Harry has taken a more prominent leadership role and been the public face promoting future Games.
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In 2022, the Winter Games were held in Whistler, Canada. Harry and Meghan attended and were photographed extensively at the events. Some felt Meghan's expensive wardrobe choices were inappropriate and brought undue attention. There were even rumors she wanted the athletes to bow to her, though nothing was proven. Regardless, their presence seemed to shift focus away from the veterans and onto themselves.
Harry has already announced plans to host the 2025 Invictus Games in Toronto. In his statement, he emphasized financial support from Canada and donors. However, the funding arrangements remain vague. Critics argue this is part of Harry's strategy to sell his commitment to the Games and rebuild his image post-Megxit. But holding a major leadership role with an organization helps maintain celebrity status and popularity.
Others point out Harry lost his royal patronages after leaving his position. Now the Invictus Games provides a high-profile platform through which he can still associate with veteran causes important to his identity. But doing so also enables lucrative deals with Netflix and other commercial partners that benefit him financially. Some see this as exploiting the Games rather than genuinely supporting wounded veterans.
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Tensions arose again this year as Harry accepted the Patrick Tillman Award from the ESPYs on July 2022. As Tillman's mother opposed associating her son's name with Harry, this was deemed disrespectful and an attempt to gain public praise. The award is meant to honor ultimate sacrifices, not celebrity status. Questions linger over whether Harry truly deserves such recognition for his military service and advocacy.
Furthermore, Boeing sponsored the 2022 Winter Games despite its 737 Max issues resulting in multiple deaths. Aligning with such a company damaged the Games' integrity in some eyes. These missteps have added to doubts about the authenticity and intentions behind Harry's tireless promotion of Invictus. While supporting veterans is laudable, some feel he has crossed a line by exploiting the charity for self-aggrandizement.
Harry served in the British army briefly, though some claimed he had academic difficulties qualifying for other career paths. Regardless, his status as a non-US citizen receiving honors there was also found disrespectful by some Americans. But he argues Invictus is not about one person and aims to shine a light on the resilient spirit of those who serve. Supporters laud his commitment to raising awareness.
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Going forward, the delicate balance between acknowledging Harry's role while centering the spotlight on veterans will be crucial. Questions over finances and choice of partners must also be addressed transparently to regain trust from skeptics. If the Games continue growing with integrity, Harry's involvement may ultimately be seen as a net positive. But for now, criticism of his celebrity-oriented tactics threatens to undermine the very cause he champions. Only time will tell if Invictus can evolve in a direction honouring heroes over public figures.
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In conclusion, while Invictus aims to support an admirable cause, Harry and Meghan's high-profile participation has divided opinion. Some see exploitation of veterans for self-promotion, others credit raising awareness. Transparency over funds and respecting military sacrifices fully may help address valid concerns raised. However, the Games' overriding focus must remain on celebrating those who serve and serve again by competing.
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