The Eoin Hayes blackface scandal is a distraction from real racism

Social Democrats TD Eoin Hayes has apologised for what he did, and that matters — if we never allow anybody to apologise, where is the accountability?

Thu, 18 Sep, 2025 - 01:00

Pierre Yimbog

When the photo of Social Democrats TD Eoin Hayes in blackface from a 2009 party surfaced at the weekend, it caused a predictable, and at the same time, unfortunate storm.

His actions at the time were offensive and unacceptable. We get that. Blackface is racist, always has been, always will be. Not a lot of people understand the history behind blackface and don’t get why it’s offensive. After all, he was “impersonating” a US president. However, there’s a more serious history behind blackface.

Blackface originated in 19th-century American minstrel shows, where white performers darkened their skin with make-up to mock enslaved Africans and their descendants. These caricatures reinforced racist stereotypes, portraying black people as inferior, lazy, or comical. The practice spread globally and remains a deeply offensive symbol of racism.

Now, we don’t know how much or how little Hayes was aware of this, but he has since apologised and taken accountability, and that matters. It doesn’t excuse what he did, but people need to be given the chance to apologise and atone for their mistakes.

Blackface is wrong, and Hayes’ actions should not be excused. But if politicians and media are serious about addressing racism, then the focus cannot stop at a 2009 party photo.

Our society often struggles with what accountability should look like. If we refuse to accept when someone acknowledges their mistake, faces the consequences and seeks to grow, then we condemn ourselves to a cycle of outrage with no progress.

If we want change, then genuine accountability must be allowed to mean something. People must be given the space to show their changed attitudes and behaviours through their actions.

In reality, the frenzy around this story is not just about blackface. It is also fuelled by Hayes’ earlier transgressions around his Palantir shares.

And unfortunately, now, the very serious and egregious allegation of racism is being used against him. Not because there is a concern this TD is racist and/or needs to understand the severity of his actions, but instead it is a distraction.

Let’s be clear: racism is now being used as a weapon in political point scoring. That is not justice. That is politics at its worst. Taking something that really harms a community and using it as a tool for someone else’s demise or your own gain. It’s not actually helping the community that this trope is designed to damage.

For black people in Ireland, it is exhausting, because many of the voices now condemning a 2009 costume are often silent when it comes to the racism we face every single day.

Where is this energy when families are left languishing in direct provision for years on end?

Where is this outrage when racist attacks on our streets continue to rise?

Where are the headlines when black people cannot post online without a torrent of racist hate?

These are not abstract debates. These are the daily realities shaping the lives of black and mixed-race people in this country.

So to be clear. Blackface is wrong, and Hayes’ actions should not be excused. But if politicians and media are serious about addressing racism, then the focus cannot stop at a 2009 party photo. Condemnation must be matched with action.

The National Action Plan Against Racism must be fought for by every member of the Oireachtas. Otherwise, it is nothing more than theatre. A convenient stick to beat opponents with, while the real issues remain untouched.

If Ireland truly wants to be an equal and inclusive society, then let us prove it. End direct provision. Tackle racist violence. Confront online hate.

Empty outrage does not protect black people. Action does.