Recent revelations of elected officials who wore blackface in the past have prompted many to try to understand why this action, often done in jest, has caused so much controversy. After all, it was done in the past and not meant to offend. Are we just being politically correct and making a big deal out of nothing? Not in this case. Black face as a form of theatrical make-up was used predominately by non-black performers during the 19th century to entertain white slave owners with caricatures of the “happy-go-lucky darky on the plantation” or “dandified coon.” Even though it is donned by many whites without an intent to offend, black face remains today as one of America’s most enduring visible symbol of racism. There is no excuse for whites wearing black face in contemporary society and apologies are warranted when blackface have been worn in the past, especially when it is brought to one’s attention its meaning and the impact on blacks and other people of color. Those who know better, do better. Getting to We is furthered by taking accountability for our actions.