Harlem local praises King Charles's diplomatic Congress speech as monarch admits: 'I keep trying'

Dorothy Reddin
Wed, 29 Apr 2026 19:46:46 +0000

King Charles stepped out in Harlem today, where a local resident praised the monarch's diplomatic approach amid his charm offensive with US President Donald Trump.

His Majesty stopped by Harlem Grown, a grassroots non-profit organisation which focuses on community initiatives that combat food insecurity and promote sustainable urban farming.

The urban farm, which is located on 134th Street, transforms vacant lots into productive community gardens.

Charles participated in an event centred on mentoring children through after-school programmes that teach nutrition, sustainability, and farming skills.

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The stop highlighted the King's long-standing passion for environmental sustainability and grassroots agricultural projects.

At one point, a local from Harlem told the monarch: “Thank you for your speech in Congress, we needed that.”

In response, the King candidly admitted: “I keep trying.”

In addition, one of the students had complimented Charles, telling him: “I like your hair.”

King Charles replied: “Do you? Good.”

Several British royals have visited Harlem over the years, often focusing on social causes and community outreach.

One of the most iconic moments occurred in 1989 when Princess Diana visited Harlem Hospital’s AIDS unit. The late Princess of Wales famously hugged a young patient to help dismantle the stigma surrounding the disease.

In 2007, King Charles, then Prince of Wales, toured the Harlem Children’s Zone and the Promise Academy.

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Meanwhile, Catherine, Princess of Wales, visited the Northside Center for Child Development in 2014 to highlight youth mental health.

More recently, in 2021, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle spent time at P.S. 123 Mahalia Jackson.

The Duchess of Sussex read to local students, continuing a long-standing royal tradition of engaging with Harlem’s educational and grassroots organisations.

Prior to heading uptown today, the King and Queen Camilla attended a wreath-laying ceremony at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum to honour victims and meet first responders.

Following his time in Harlem, the King is scheduled to attend a business event at Rockefeller Plaza to discuss trade and economic ties.

The day concludes with a cultural reception alongside Queen Camilla, featuring figures from the creative and cultural industries.

While the King is in Harlem, Queen Camilla is attending separate literary engagements.

This includes a visit to the New York Public Library to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Winnie-the-Pooh.