Republican Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY) addressed the controversy on Thursday night over photos of him in blackface at a Halloween party during his college days, stating that his intention was to “pay homage” to pop icon Michael Jackson. In an interview with CNN, Lawler apologized and acknowledged the offensive nature of his actions but maintained that his decision was not meant to demean or mock Black Americans.
“I certainly understand why people would be upset or offended by it, and for that, I’m sorry,” Lawler said during his appearance on The Source with Kaitlan Collins. “There was no ill intent. There was no effort to malign make fun of or disparage Black Americans. It was really an effort to pay homage to somebody who was a musical idol for me.”
The controversy arose earlier that day when The New York Times published photos reportedly taken in October 2006, showing Lawler dressed as Michael Jackson at a college party. The images depict the congressman wearing a black shirt, a red jacket, and blackface while striking a dance pose reminiscent of Jackson.
Lawler, 20 years old at the time the photos were taken, expressed regret for the decision but emphasized that his actions were not meant to insult anyone. “Obviously, I can’t change what happened 18 years ago,” he said. “It’s not something I would do today.”
Throughout the interview, Lawler repeatedly apologized for his past behavior while also defending his costume choice as a tribute to the pop star. “I think there is a stark difference between dressing up for Halloween and paying homage to somebody you like and respect, versus dressing up in blackface to demean and dehumanize black people. That’s obviously not what I was doing there.”
Kaitlan Collins pointed out the “ugly history” associated with blackface and the offense it can cause, especially given that Lawler’s suburban New York district includes a significant population of 59,000 Black residents.
In response, Lawler expressed his understanding of the hurt caused by his actions. “I certainly understand how someone would take offense,” he said. “And for that, I do apologize.” Despite his apologies, the incident has reignited debates over the appropriateness of blackface in any context and raised questions about Lawler’s sensitivity to issues affecting Black Americans.