OBE recipient slams use of word 'empire' in award

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The Queen and the Royal Family face criticism for the use of the word empire given in the Queen’s honours awards. OBE recipient Poppy Jaman spoke to LBC’s Shelagh Fogarty and discussed her own reservations over the use of the word. She argued the British Empire does not represent a positive impact across the globe for many people.

She also admitted that she considered not accepting the award due to the use of the word empire.

Ms Jaman said: “It is a branding and it is an inclusion agenda, it is a modernisation agenda.

“Why are we using the word empire when the empire no longer exists.

“Actually, to some of us, there is another agenda which is that the empire doesn’t resonate, it is not all amazing.

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“Actually is has been quite hurtful to many people around the world.

“It has had some positives but I think this word stops, it puts a hesitation, a pause, on the celebration of receiving something so amazing.”

Ms Jaman highlighted that she still remained proud of receiving the honour despite her criticisms.

She said: “I really want to say I am so proud to be British Bengali and receiving it.

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“Going to the Palace was one of the proudest days of my life.

“In the lead up to it, I spent three weeks thinking whether I could accept it.

“Every time it comes up in conversation, family gatherings, at work I have to always go, the word empire.

“I just want to wholeheartedly celebrate mental health and mental wellbeing. “

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This comes after a row over a decision made by Oxford students to remove an image of the Queen in their common room.

A vote was taken among the students and they argued it represented the British Empire and made the place less welcoming.

However, many commentators argued the Queen had dedicated her life to the Royal Family and helping others during her time as Queen.

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