I still don't understand why it was such a big deal...

I get that blackface is an issue in bigger productions because yeah, they should really cast a black actor instead of putting makeup on a white one, but this was (as I understand it) a high school play where an actor of the correct race was probably not available (I know it would've been hard to find where I went to school), and even then, it most definitely wasn't a paid gig, so the issue around stealing jobs is completely moot.

Is it insensitive? Oh yes. Is it actually hateful towards black / brown people? I don't think so.

"They should learn the value of hard work" is on a completely different level, IMO. As if they don't work as hard as anyone else.

When he applauded the guy, did Trudeau know?

Do you think Robert Downey Jr is racist too?

Before mimes get nervous, let's talk about Drama club and the notion of intent. "Both sides"-ing is such cheese.