Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed media on Monday, providing update to the federal government's response to COVID-19, and giving a specific message regarding anti-black racism in Canada.
"By standing together and denouncing the few that would try to derail these demonstrations, Canadians are sending the message that they will never tolerate injustice," said Trudeau.
"The status quo... is unacceptable," Trudeau continued.
Trudeau’s message this morning on anti-black racism in Canada and the United States. pic.twitter.com/vPaApMtV9X
— ROBERTO WAKERELL-CRUZ ✝️ (@Robertopedia) June 1, 2020
After his comments, Trudeau was asked whether he believed his history with blackface took away from his moral leadership in addressing anti-black racism.
Trudeau responded by saying that all Canadians have a role to play, saying: "I have spoken many times about how deeply I regret my actions, and hurt very many people. At the same time, we need to focus on doing better every day, regardless of what we did or haven't done in our past."
Trudeau responds to a question about him wearing blackface: pic.twitter.com/F60MwACr7D
— ROBERTO WAKERELL-CRUZ ✝️ (@Robertopedia) June 1, 2020
Trudeau said that it was up to Canadians to be an ally to minority communities and racialized communities across Canada.