In light of several photographs of Justin Trudeau in brown-face makeup making national and international headlines this week, a representative of the Moose Jaw Newcomers Centre has a few words of advice to share. 

Lauren McTaggart is the settlement services manager for the Newcomers Centre and she said the reaction to the photos is, so far, disappointment. 

"I don't want to speak for everyone, but I think people are generally disappointed when stuff like this comes out," McTaggart said, Friday. "You expect better from people. I think there may be a big difference between seeing something that happened in the past and something that happens now, at least in my opinion." 

McTaggart also said that upset is valid, however, on the whole, Canada is still a positive and welcoming place to call home. 

"If you are feeling upset, that's perfectly valid. You should be able to express those values. Yes this did happen, but on a whole, Canada is an inviting and inclusive community, so even if there is something or somebody that's triggered you, there's more good than bad in Canada and in the community."

McTaggart said that in general, empathy, kindness, and curiosity are the best mindsets with which to approach any culturally sensitive topic. 

"I always try to encourage people to take the mindset of curiosity rather than judgement. So when you encounter someone who maybe doesn't dress the same way as you or believe the same things, it doesn't mean it's wrong, so I always say, 'well how can we get curious about this? What can we learn from them,' rather than assuming they're wrong just because it's different than what we do." 

McTaggart said she hasn't seen too many negative reactions, and added that education is key. 

"The main thing is just about educating people. Because I think that when we know better, we do better. So just taking the opportunity to [ask] 'well why isn't this ok?' We're always happy to do cultural sensitivity training and different awareness programs with anyone who's interested." 

With Halloween season on its way next month, McTaggart suggested simply reflecting on what it is that you'd like your costume to portray. Now that online social media is prevalent, your costume may be remembered for longer than you'd like. 

"I think the most important thing to do would be to have a conversation with your child, or if it is yourself dressing up, just doing some introspection about 'why do I want to dress like this', and 'how can I celebrate the culture without trying to emulate or make it seem as if I'm making someone's traditional dress into a costume' when it's not, it's just their way of life."