Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is receiving criticism after posting a tweet about Emancipation Day.
“Today, we acknowledge the painful history of slavery in Canada. We also celebrate the strength of Black communities, who fought – and continue to fight – for justice and equality,” Trudeau tweeted.
He added, “Together, let’s keep building a more inclusive Canada. [Emancipation Day].”
Today, we acknowledge the painful history of slavery in Canada. We also celebrate the strength of Black communities, who fought – and continue to fight – for justice and equality. Together, let’s keep building a more inclusive Canada. #EmancipationDay https://t.co/j74xyImflw
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) August 1, 2022
Critics did not react kindly to his tweet.
One user responded, “You are a racist, who implements racist policies, which have a disparate impact on black Canadians. You are a disgraceful, evil, gaslighting tyrant. A stain on our nation.”
You are a racist, who implements racist policies, which have a disparate impact on black Canadians. You are a disgraceful, evil, gaslighting tyrant. A stain on our nation, @JustinTrudeau. https://t.co/ZE3ycJmixJ
— Viva Frei (@thevivafrei) August 1, 2022
Another wrote, “Of all the world leaders. You sir are the most pathetic and petulant of them all. From the comments on this post, it really does seem like the majority of Canadians completely despise you.”
https://twitter.com/ZaraBanana4/status/1554220753972858882
Some brought up incidents during which Trudeau wore blackface and brownface.
https://twitter.com/ZaraBanana4/status/1554218753075855367
OK this is the funniest thing hes ever said https://t.co/7cpQGFyazz pic.twitter.com/jd9hxeHJQy
— Cool Hand James (@CoolHandJames0) August 1, 2022
Is this how you celebrate? https://t.co/1iTBTcSEv4 pic.twitter.com/8hcL6tdy8t
— Scott Duquette (@srduquette3) August 1, 2022
Well said Black Face. https://t.co/JSP2umvFlK
— REB 4 common sense (@beerandgolfguy) August 2, 2022
https://twitter.com/YeOleWhale/status/1554203892526743552
In 2019, the photo of Trudeau at an Arabian Nights-themed party at West Point Grey Academy resurfaced showing him painted with dark paint and wearing a turban.
He later apologized for his actions.
“I attended an end-of-year gala where the theme was Arabian Nights. I dressed up in an Aladdin costume and put makeup on,” he said.
Trudeau continued, “I shouldn’t have done that. I should have known better, but I didn’t, and I’m really sorry.”
Additionally, he told reporters, “I’m pissed off at myself, obviously. I’m disappointed in myself.”
Earlier this year, Conservative Member of Canada’s Parliament Candice Bergen slammed Trudeau after he accused protesters of “hateful rhetoric.”
In the House of Commons, she said, “I do get very defensive of Canadians who are outside today. Patriotic, peace loving Canadians who are called misogynist and racist by the prime minister.”
Bergen added, “So again, I will ask the prime minister, who may I remind this House, wore blackface on more times than he can remember. Apologize to the peace loving, patriotic Canadians who are outside right now.”