Victoria's Blackface

Ngan Nguyen

After watching White Bear, I was able to see the connection to Blackface. I can imagine Victoria on Broadway performing a skit on stage, except she is not wearing a mask. Blackface, originated in the 19th century where a white performer painted his face with burnt cork to be recognized as a black person. Blackface demonstrates the stereotype of African Americans and targeted White audience because they "wouldn't accept real black entertainers on stage unless they performed in blackface makeup." Throughout history, there is not a clear boundary of where justice should be classified as because different types of people of different races have different opinions of what justice should be like. Like White Bear, the audience enjoyed and was entertained throughout the show. As for Victoria, the audience did actually enjoy the show, but for third omniscient people like us viewers, would not. Why? I believe we, as viewers, can connect to the morality of our conscience's thoughts. We think outside the box and are less biased because we don't look only at one perspective. The director intentionally directs many views such as from Victoria's point of view, the audience's point of view, and also the torture which we can empathize with Victoria. We went over the question whether is it just to punish Victoria once or multiple times?. I would not punish her even once because I would be classified as Victoria, a criminal. Kant would say that Victoria did not follow the Categorial Imperative, therefore she has her own punishment. But what if I tortured her, would I be classified as neglecting my duty and not respecting the laws. Then I would be at fault. The people who enjoyed Blackface performers feel very pleased because it makes them more dignified. Same with Victoria, people who capture her reactions feel satisfied because it makes them more righteous and "just". There is justice in this world, but also not enough justice to execute injustice cases that are just. Racism still exists and justice still exists, but it is not enough justice to help racism dissolved. My conclusion is that I would not torture Victoria because I know that one day the consequence of her actions will backfire her and that is her punishment. Whether she gains any value from this punishment, it is up to her. But at least, I know I gain a good value of morality, righteousness and forgiveness. 

Source: http://black-face.com/