Shivers has won Grey Cups in Vancouver and Calgary, where he established himself as the finest recruiter of talent in the league.

Shivers wanted more. He was offered the general manager's job in Regina in 1999. Shortly after he joined the team, he hired Barrett to coach. He insisted on an African-American.

"He wanted someone of colour, African American, that was qualified and I think that is the key," says Barrett. "If I wasn't qualified, he wouldn't have hired me."

Shivers feels he has made a difference in Canada. Since hiring Barrett, there are now more black coaches in the CFL.

"It relates to any minority group. Give them a chance. Give them a chance. My thing was, I was in a position to do this," says Shivers.

"We've never held decision making positions, that's what it was. Decisions have always been made on us throughout history – not only in sports and football, but throughout history."

Shivers' agenda, however, can only go so far if the Roughriders don't win. He knows that.

"The happiest thing for me for Canada right now would be for the Riders to win the Grey Cup in the year 2004/2005. I'd be the most happiest man."

So would Roughrider fans.

>> VI. Love in Black & White