Last month, Canada bid farewell to one of its most esteemed documentarians, Roger McTair, who passed away at the age of 80 due to complications from Parkinson’s disease. McTair was widely recognized for his profound exploration of the Black Canadian experience through his groundbreaking films.

In 1975, McTair made history with his documentary “Some Black Women,” becoming the first Black Canadian director to delve into the role of Black women in 1970s Canada. His work shed light on the multifaceted experiences and contributions of Black women during that era.

Collaborating with fellow pioneering Black documentarian Claire Preito, McTair produced remarkable films like the 1987 documentary “Home to Buxton,” which provided an intimate look into the lives of residents in one of Ontario’s earliest Black settlements.

Beyond his directorial achievements, McTair was also an accomplished writer, poet, and educator. For 18 years, he served as a teacher at Seneca College, leaving a lasting impact on his students.

Reflecting on McTair’s legacy, his son, artist and poet Ian Kamau, shared poignant memories of his father’s profound influence. Kamau emphasized McTair’s dedication to fostering meaningful relationships and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Recalling his father’s passionate engagement with community members, Kamau fondly remembered McTair’s penchant for intellectual conversations, love of music and film, and his dark sense of humor. He highlighted how McTair’s legacy continues to resonate through his own artistic endeavors.

As Kamau navigates his own journey as a storyteller, he finds solace in the realization that he carries his father’s legacy within him. From McTair’s love of music and writing to his deep-rooted political beliefs and community engagement, Kamau recognizes himself as a reflection of his father’s enduring influence.