How Kate Middleton’s Pandemic Initiatives Shine in Monarch’s Christmas Speech

In a poignant Christmas speech today, the Queen silently acknowledged the hard work of her granddaughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, amidst the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

While Her Majesty focused on the global crisis, video clips playing in the background paid tribute to the efforts of senior royals throughout 2020.

Notably, the initiative spearheaded by Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, took center stage, as reported by the Express.

Kate's Hold Still photography contest, conducted in partnership with the National Portrait Gallery, sought to capture and preserve the spirit, hopes, fears, and emotions of the nation during the pandemic.

The portraits resulting from this project are currently exhibited in 80 towns and cities across the UK, reconnecting communities with the stories of individuals and families during the lockdown period.

Several of these poignant portraits, featured among the final selection of 100, were showcased during the Queen's speech today.

They depicted the isolation imposed by lockdown measures, alongside the resilience and communal solidarity that blossomed in 2020.

One of the notable images included in the montage was “Glass Kisses” by Steph James, portraying a touching moment between a great-grandmother and her great-grandson, separated by a glass barrier.

Another striking photo, titled “Daddy's Love” and submitted by Simran Jandua, captured a granddaughter communicating with her grandmother through a closed door.

Additionally, “Prayers for Our Community” by Rev Tim Hayward and Beth Hayward depicted the Reverend standing in an empty church surrounded by images of his community members, symbolizing unity in solitude.

During her address, the Queen also acknowledged the contributions of other members of the royal family.

The speech highlighted a visit made by Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, and Prince Charles to the Gloucestershire Hospital's NHS Trust in June.