The Blackface Principal
Author(s): Scott Douglas Jacobsen
Publication (Outlet/Website): Medium (Personal)
Publication Date (yyyy/mm/dd): 2024/06/27
This kind of thing happened with the Prime Minister of Canada in his past too. If people let that one slide, then they may have tacitly let this one slide too, as the Prime Minister is a much more significant position in Canadian society.
At the time, Bonnar said, “This happened and it never should have… It was wrong.”
In a letter to families, he said, “I understand how offensive it is to appear in blackface, and how it diminishes and demeans members of our black community. I also recognize that it is just one symbol of a long history of racism throughout our society. I take responsibility for my actions, recognizing I come from a privileged position in our society and that as a Caucasian person in a position of authority I should never have put myself in this position… I am committed to unlearning and learning and being better. I know this apology letter to the community is only the first step I need to take. All students, staff, and members of the school community need to feel they are in a healthy, safe, and inclusive environment.”
He apologized and took responsibility, a little over the top, but like everyone who has done some things where another choice may have been better; he acted like a normal, mature person.
However, the fact of having white nationalist groups, like Northern Order, in Fort Langley and having no response, basically, from the community or outing of these persons is clearly not an issue, because there was no controversy there.
Stewart remarked on the need for accountability and responsibility, which is correct. I am less surprised about black face in the major school in Fort Langley from its leadership and a white nationalist doing a photoshoot there, and more surprised about the inconsistency in the application of the ethics and public reactions.
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