"Slavery was the context in which current race relations were created."

Any time someone pontificates about Canada, they're going to get it in the neck - from regionalists who get red faced when any region but their own gets a moment in the spotlight, from people who simply feel their agenda isn't being represented. But those decrying the series' omissions are missing its intent.

Watching the CBC's 10-part television series Canada: The Story Of Us had me figuratively scratching my head. It left me flabbergasted and astounded. Critics have decried the series' anglo-centric slant on history. Respect should come from all sides, beginning with cordiality, recognition and representation.

We were welcomed by what I can only describe as peacefulness; only the sounds of rustling leaves and swaying trees could be heard even though the grounds were full of people. It was the polar opposite, I imagined, of what was going on in that same spot in April 1917, during the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

For too long, the achievements of our community were rarely listed in text books, showcased in film, or shared with a wide audience. Black Canadians have come to expect their stories to be ignored in Canadian history.

“I wanted to reflect on the last 150 years. What has it meant to indigenous people?”