Duchess of Sussex offers emotional support to Althea Bernstein who received burns to her face during an alleged racially motivated assault

Fox News in the US has reported on the story of Althea Bernstein of Madison, Wisconsin and her alleged attack by a group of white men. Althea is biracial. The story has caught the attention of Duchess Meghan who has reportedly reached out to offer emotional support to Althea.

The police news report speaks of the 'victim' saying that she believes she was driving on W. Gorham St. when she stopped for a red light at State St., Madison. Her driver’s side window was down and she heard someone yell out a racial epithet. She looked and saw four men, all white. She says one used a spray bottle to deploy a liquid on her face and neck, and then threw a flaming lighter at her, causing the liquid to ignite. The police are still investigating and are seeking camera footage and witnesses. 

Photo from Essence 

Fox news reports that Boys & Girls Clubs of Dane County President and CEO Michael Johnson, who has been acting as a spokesperson for Althea, said the Duchess of Sussex reached out to him to connect with Althea. The three talked on the phone for about 40 minutes (this) Saturday afternoon, Johnson said.

“Althea and Meghan talked about the importance of self care and allowing herself to heal. And she applauded her for the way that she responded and pretty much said hey Michael, give me her cellphone number. I want to stay in touch. And let me know when you want me to come back and talk to people in Wisconsin,'” said Johnson. He said Althea was moved to tears by the conversation.

Mr. Johnson added that Prince Harry also joined the call for about 10 minutes.
 

Johnson said he was impressed with Meghan. “As I heard her, I thought she has to talk to more kids,” he said. Meghan has apparently already agreed to talk at a virtual town hall that is scheduled to take place later in July.