Prince Harry’s fiancee declared that the press’s early focus on her mixed race background was “disheartening” Monday, according to the Associated Press.

Meghan Markle, an actress of African American and Caucasian descent, struggled with how the press focused on her mixed-race background in the beginning stages of her and the prince’s relationship, the Associated Press reported.

“Of course it’s disheartening” Markle said about the press’ interest in her racial heritage. Various media outlets have played up Markle’s background, either by highlighting her ethnic background in their headlines or focusing on how her race breaks down barriers.

A Time write-up on how the engagement between Markle and Prince Harry is ground breaking cited Markle’s mixed background as the number one reason for why “the union will truly break ground.” An October Daily Beast write-up explained that Markle’s race would also “mark a major evolution in a presently all-white Royal Family.”

Harry and Markle announced their engagement Monday and plan to get married in 2018, according to an announcement from the royal family.

“Prince Harry has informed Her Majesty The Queen and other close members of his family. Prince Harry has also sought and received the blessing of Ms. Markle’s parents,” the royals said in a statement.

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