Serena Williams knows firsthand the trauma that can be caused by years of racism and sexism.
The 23-time grand slam took to social media to publicly defend good friend Meghan Markle to praise her “empathy and compassion” and her strength to stand up to the “pain and cruelty” she faces every day.
“I know firsthand the sexism and racism institutions and the media use to vilify women and people of color to minimize us, to break us down and demonize us,” Serena tweeted. “We must recognize our obligation to decry malicious, unfounded gossip and tabloid journalism. The mental health consequences of systemic oppression and victimization are devastating, isolating and all too often lethal.”
Meghan contemplated suicide during her darkest days with the royal family, she revealed in an interview with Oprah Winfrey that aired Sunday night on CBS.
“I was ashamed to say it at the time and ashamed to have to admit it to Harry, especially because I know how much loss he’s suffered,” the 39-year-old former “Suits” actress said. “But I knew that if I didn’t say it, then I would do it. I just didn’t want to be alive anymore. That was clear and real and frightening and constant thought.”