Thank you, Madam Chair.
I have the impression that we've made a very good start on an extremely interesting discussion. I've just heard Ms. Lewis's arguments in defence of her amendment. I believe that too will be interesting.
Is blackface really a symbol of hate and contempt?
For many years, black makeup was used in the theatre. It was a way to enable a white actor to play a black role. At the time, it was not necessarily considered contemptuous, hateful or disrespectful.
I find this discussion extremely interesting. It's also the kind of discussion we could have as part of our study. But I'm not sure about the relevance of adding blackface to the motion as something that is clearly considered a hate symbol. I'm nevertheless open to the idea of hearing arguments from my colleagues.
I think that we'll be having some extremely sensitive discussions on this subject. We'll all have to be walking on eggshells on occasion because it is certainly sensitive issue.
For the time being, I have reservations about adding the fact that blackface is a hate symbol to the motion. I'd like to hear evidence from people Ms. Lewis could invite to appear, in addition to her own testimony.
I am really looking forward to the discussion we're going to have on this motion, but I still have doubts about the relevance of adding blackface to the wording of the motion.