Now that the world has come up for air from all the pomp and circumstance that surrounded the royal wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, there is much to be discussed. For starters, the American vibes were strong at Windsor Castle on May 19, 2018, and not everyone is on board with it. Follow along to find out the controversial ways Meghan Markle Americanized the royal wedding, and what that could mean for the future of the British monarchy. 

1. Markle is the first woman of color to marry into the royal family

For those living under a rock, Markle became the first ever woman of color to marry into the British royal family. Historically, the royal family as a whole has been less than accommodating when it comes to adopting multi-ethnic heritages. Besides Markle bi-racial background, her very American, free-thinking personality challenges the traditions of the royal family.

Next: The Bishop who turned heads

2. Bishop Michael Bruce Curry took the pulpit

The first-ever African-American bishop of the Episcopal Church was invited to preach to the wedding party and guests, and it was a truly momentous occasion. In an interview with the Today Show, Bishop Curry admitted to being “a little bit nervous” at the beginning of the sermon but quickly settled in. On being invited to deliver the royal wedding sermon, Curry believed it was an April Fool’s joke.

Next: The Brits were confused by his approach

3. Curry preached in a very American way

Many Americans who have grown up attending church are quite familiar with the way Curry delivered his sermon — full of passion and enthusiasm. “Two young people fell in love, and we all showed up,” said Bishop Curry, but he also said much more. The sermon touched on controversial pieces of history regarding slavery and the world-changing power of love. One thing was for sure, and that was the obvious discomfort and confusion on the face of many Brits.

Next: The choir’s choice of song

4. The Kingdom Choir sang “Stand by Me”

The completely African-American Kingdom Choir of South East London has been banded together and performing for nearly 20 years. But at the royal wedding, the Kingdom Choir eloquently performed Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller’s 1961 “Stand by Me.” The choir’s rendition of the song was worthy of goosebumps and had the entire room in awe.

Next: The modernization of the monarchy

5. Some believe Markle and Harry will modernize the monarchy

Recently labeled the British ‘fab four,’ Harry, Markle, William, and Middleton are wildly more relatable than Queen Elizabeth II or Prince Charles combined. That alone has a younger generation of Brits excited. However, the entrance of Markle into the royal family symbolizes much more. It is argued that Markle’s presence could spark more acceptance for multi-ethnic immigrants and racial differences across the board.

Nels Abbey, a columnist for the Voice, explains clearly that “If you accept that the immigration debate is a racial debate, then Britain talks about race more than anything else. If you don’t accept that, then Britain doesn’t talk about race at all.”

Next: Are traditions in question? 

6. Conservative traditions could disappear

Queen Elizabeth II has been the reigning monarch for over six decades. In those six decades, she has proven to be consistently conservative with age-old beliefs and traditions — some of which have been deemed quite out of date to modern Brits. When YouGov surveyed British citizens about their feelings on Markle joining the royal family, 66 percent felt indifferent, but two-thirds believed she could breathe new life into the monarchy, reforming some of the age-old traditions to reflect a more modern-day England.

Next: Is there a point in the monarchy after all? 

7. British citizens could inevitably question the importance of the monarchy altogether

As the monarchy becomes more modernized, it has been argued that the purpose of the monarchy altogether could be put into question. The antique form of government may eventually prove to serve the British people less and less. Although two-thirds of the population believe the monarchy is here to stay, the other third questions its importance. Time will be the ultimate factor in play when the torch is passed down from Queen Elizabeth II.