Trudeau is ‘deeply sorry’ over photo

CANADIAN leader Justin Trudeau’s campaign is trying to contain a growing scandal over the publication of a yearbook photo showing him in “brownface” make-up at a 2001 costume party.

Time magazine published the photo, saying it was taken from a yearbook for West Point Grey Academy, a private school in British Columbia where Mr Trudeau taught before entering politics.

It depicts the then 29-year-old wearing a turban and robe, with dark make-up on his hands, face and neck.

Mr Trudeau, 47, who launched his re-election campaign a week ago, apologised and begged Canadians to forgive him, adding that he should have known better.

“I’m pissed off at myself, I’m disappointed in myself,” the prime minister told reporters travelling with him on his campaign plane.

The photo of Mr Trudeau was taken at the school’s annual dinner which had an Arabian Nights theme, he said, adding that he was dressed as a character from Aladdin.

The prime minister said it was not the first time he had painted his face, as he had once performed a version of Harry Belafonte’s Banana Boat Song (Day-O) during a talent show.

“I should have known better then but I didn’t, and I am deeply sorry for it,” Mr Trudeau said.

“I’m going to ask Canadians to forgive me for what I did. I shouldn’t have done that. I take responsibility for it. It was a dumb thing to do.”

The prime minister, who champions diversity and multiculturalism, said he did not consider it racist at the time but society knows better now.

Mr Trudeau has been admired by liberals around the world for his progressive policies, with Canada accepting more refugees than the US.