This phrase signifies a rodeo event planned for 2025 that specifically highlights and celebrates the contributions of Black, Indigenous, and other non-white cowboys and cowgirls. Such events typically showcase traditional rodeo skills like bronc riding, bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling, while also offering a platform to recognize the rich cultural heritage of these often underrepresented groups within the western world.
Events of this nature play a vital role in promoting diversity and inclusion within the rodeo community. They offer opportunities for visibility and recognition of talented individuals from marginalized backgrounds, challenge historical narratives that often exclude people of color, and create spaces for intercultural exchange and understanding. By showcasing a wider representation of participants, these rodeos can inspire future generations and foster a more inclusive and equitable environment within the sport.
Further exploration of this topic will delve into specific participants, historical precedents, the cultural significance of these events, and the broader impact of promoting inclusivity in rodeo and related Western traditions.
1. Cultural Heritage
Cultural heritage forms a cornerstone of events like the envisioned 2025 rodeo. These rodeos provide a platform to showcase the deep-rooted traditions and contributions of Black, Indigenous, and other non-white cowboys and cowgirls, which have often been marginalized or overlooked in mainstream narratives of the American West. This heritage includes not only specific riding and roping techniques passed down through generations but also unique styles of dress, music, storytelling, and community celebration. For example, the Black cowboy tradition, with roots in the post-Civil War era, features distinct horsemanship styles and cultural practices often absent from popular portrayals. Similarly, Indigenous communities have long-standing relationships with horses and land, reflected in their unique rodeo traditions and spiritual connections. These cultural elements interwoven into the rodeo create a richer, more accurate portrayal of Western history and culture.
Recognizing the cultural heritage embedded in these events allows for a deeper understanding of their significance. It moves beyond simply showcasing athletic skill to acknowledging the historical and ongoing presence of diverse communities within the Western landscape. By highlighting these cultural contributions, the rodeo fosters greater appreciation for the multifaceted nature of cowboy culture and challenges the homogenized narratives often presented. This representation can be particularly impactful for younger generations of color, offering them role models and a sense of belonging within a historically exclusionary space.
In summary, cultural heritage is integral to the meaning and impact of rodeos celebrating cowboys of color. It offers a corrective to historical omissions, celebrates the richness of diverse traditions, and empowers future generations by fostering a more inclusive and representative understanding of Western heritage. Preserving and showcasing this heritage is not just about honoring the past but also about shaping a more equitable and inclusive future for the sport.
2. Historical Representation
Historical representation forms a crucial backdrop for understanding the significance of a contemporary rodeo celebrating cowboys of color. The dominant narrative of the American West often minimizes or erases the contributions of non-white cowboys and cowgirls, perpetuating a skewed and incomplete picture of this historical period. Events like the envisioned 2025 rodeo serve as a corrective, highlighting the historical presence and active participation of Black, Indigenous, and other non-white individuals in shaping Western culture and the rodeo tradition. This act of reclaiming historical representation challenges stereotypical portrayals and offers a more accurate and inclusive understanding of the past. For example, historical records indicate that approximately one in four cowboys during the late 19th century were Black, a statistic rarely reflected in popular media or historical accounts. Similarly, Indigenous communities have deep-rooted traditions of horsemanship and rodeo-style competitions predating the arrival of European settlers.
By centering the experiences of these historically marginalized groups, a cowboys of color rodeo directly addresses the legacy of exclusion and misrepresentation. It provides a platform to showcase the skills, traditions, and cultural contributions of these communities, offering a counter-narrative to the often-romanticized and homogenized image of the cowboy. This corrected historical narrative has practical significance, as it fosters greater understanding and appreciation for the diversity of the American West and challenges the systemic biases that have historically marginalized people of color. Moreover, accurate representation helps to inspire and empower future generations by providing them with visible role models and a stronger sense of connection to their heritage.
In conclusion, the connection between historical representation and the concept of a cowboys of color rodeo is inextricably linked. These events actively work to rectify historical omissions and provide a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of the American West. This not only enriches the historical narrative but also has tangible benefits for contemporary society, fostering greater inclusivity, challenging stereotypes, and empowering individuals from underrepresented communities.
3. Skill Showcase
A central component of any rodeo, and particularly a cowboys of color rodeo, is the skill showcase. These events provide a platform for participants to demonstrate exceptional abilities in a range of traditional rodeo disciplines. Bronc riding, bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and roping events highlight the athleticism, precision, and horsemanship honed over years of practice. In the context of a cowboys of color rodeo, the skill showcase takes on added significance. It serves as a powerful counter-narrative to historical stereotypes and limited portrayals of people of color within the Western and rodeo traditions. By showcasing exceptional skill and athleticism, these rodeos challenge preconceived notions and demonstrate the deep connection between diverse communities and the sport.
Examples abound of highly skilled Black, Indigenous, and other non-white rodeo athletes who have achieved remarkable success. While historical figures like Bill Pickett, a Black cowboy and rodeo performer who invented the technique of bulldogging, may be less known to mainstream audiences, contemporary rodeo stars continue to push boundaries and achieve recognition. Highlighting these individual achievements within the context of a dedicated cowboys of color rodeo further amplifies their impact, inspiring future generations and demonstrating the breadth of talent within these communities. The skill showcase also serves a practical purpose, offering opportunities for recognition, sponsorship, and advancement within the rodeo world. This can lead to increased visibility and opportunities for individuals from marginalized communities, furthering the goals of diversity and inclusion within the sport.
In summary, the skill showcase serves as a crucial element of the cowboys of color rodeo. It provides a platform for celebrating individual achievement, challenging historical narratives, and promoting inclusivity within the sport. By highlighting exceptional talent and athleticism, these rodeos empower participants, inspire future generations, and contribute to a more accurate and representative portrayal of Western heritage and the rodeo tradition. This focus on skill not only entertains but also educates, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diverse individuals who shape the world of rodeo.
4. Community building
Community building represents a vital aspect of events like the envisioned 2025 cowboys of color rodeo. These events serve as focal points for strengthening bonds within specific communities and fostering connections across diverse groups. Rodeos specifically highlighting Black, Indigenous, and other non-white cowboys and cowgirls create spaces for shared experiences, cultural exchange, and mutual support. This community-building function operates on multiple levels. Within specific racial or ethnic groups, these events can reinforce cultural pride, preserve traditions, and provide opportunities for mentorship and intergenerational connection. For example, a Black rodeo might feature exhibitions of traditional Black cowboy techniques, storytelling about historical figures, or opportunities for young riders to connect with experienced mentors. Similarly, Indigenous rodeos often incorporate cultural practices and ceremonies that strengthen community ties and transmit knowledge across generations. The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, a long-standing organization dedicated to Black rodeo athletes, exemplifies the power of these events to foster community and preserve cultural heritage.
Beyond strengthening individual communities, these rodeos also facilitate cross-cultural understanding and bridge-building. By bringing together diverse audiences and participants, they create opportunities for interaction and shared experiences, breaking down stereotypes and fostering a sense of shared heritage within the broader Western and rodeo community. These events can also serve as platforms for dialogue and education about the historical and ongoing contributions of people of color to Western culture and the rodeo tradition. The educational component can extend beyond the rodeo arena itself, reaching into local communities through outreach programs and partnerships with educational institutions. For example, some rodeos partner with local schools to offer educational programs about Black cowboys or Indigenous horse cultures, further expanding their community impact. These broader community connections can lead to increased support for rodeo athletes of color, greater understanding of their cultural contributions, and a more inclusive environment within the sport as a whole.
In summary, community building stands as a core benefit of rodeos celebrating cowboys of color. These events strengthen bonds within individual communities, foster cross-cultural understanding, and provide platforms for education and dialogue. By creating spaces for shared experiences, these rodeos promote inclusivity, preserve cultural heritage, and empower individuals from underrepresented groups within the larger rodeo landscape. Strengthening these community ties not only benefits participants directly but also contributes to a richer and more representative portrayal of Western culture and the rodeo tradition. This community focus provides a foundation for ongoing support, mentorship, and advocacy, ultimately driving positive change within the sport and beyond.
5. Inspiring Future Generations
Events like a cowboys of color rodeo planned for 2025 hold significant potential for inspiring future generations. By showcasing the skills, achievements, and cultural contributions of Black, Indigenous, and other non-white cowboys and cowgirls, these rodeos can have a profound impact on young people, particularly those from underrepresented communities. Witnessing individuals who look like them excelling in a historically exclusionary space can foster a sense of belonging, encourage participation, and broaden aspirations. This inspiration can extend beyond the rodeo arena, impacting career choices, educational pursuits, and community involvement.
-
Representation and Role Models
Representation matters deeply. Seeing successful individuals from diverse backgrounds participating in rodeo can dismantle stereotypes and broaden perceptions of who belongs in these spaces. Young people from underrepresented communities gain visible role models who challenge limiting narratives and demonstrate that their dreams and aspirations are achievable. This representation can spark interest in rodeo and related fields, encouraging participation and fostering a more inclusive and diverse future for the sport.
-
Preservation of Cultural Heritage
Cowboys of color rodeos provide a platform for showcasing and preserving rich cultural traditions often overlooked in mainstream narratives of the American West. Young people gain exposure to unique riding styles, attire, music, and storytelling, fostering a deeper appreciation for their own heritage and the diverse tapestry of Western culture. This exposure can inspire a sense of pride and connection to the past, motivating future generations to carry on these traditions and contribute to their continued vibrancy.
-
Promoting Inclusivity and Challenging Stereotypes
These rodeos actively challenge stereotypes and promote a more inclusive vision of the Western and rodeo world. By showcasing the talent and achievements of diverse participants, they dismantle preconceived notions about who belongs in these spaces and create a more welcoming environment for future generations. This challenge to traditional narratives can have ripple effects beyond the rodeo arena, contributing to greater inclusivity and equity in other areas of society.
-
Empowerment and Opportunity
By highlighting success stories and providing platforms for skill development and recognition, cowboys of color rodeos empower young people and create pathways for future opportunity. These events can inspire young people to pursue their passions, develop their skills, and strive for excellence, knowing that they have the support of a community and a platform to showcase their talents. This empowerment can translate into greater educational attainment, career success, and community leadership.
These interconnected facets demonstrate the significant potential of the 2025 cowboys of color rodeo and similar events to inspire future generations. By providing representation, preserving cultural heritage, promoting inclusivity, and creating opportunities, these rodeos can shape a more diverse, equitable, and vibrant future for the sport and beyond. The impact of these events extends far beyond the rodeo arena, influencing how young people see themselves, their communities, and their potential to contribute to a more inclusive society.
6. Diversity and Inclusion
Diversity and inclusion form integral components of the envisioned 2025 cowboys of color rodeo, representing not merely aspirational goals but core values shaping the event’s significance. Historically, rodeo, like many aspects of Western culture, has been characterized by a lack of representation of people of color. Events like this actively challenge that historical narrative by centering the experiences and contributions of Black, Indigenous, and other non-white cowboys and cowgirls. Understanding the multifaceted nature of diversity and inclusion within this context requires examining its practical implications.
-
Challenging Historical Narratives
Rodeos specifically highlighting cowboys of color directly challenge the dominant, often homogenized, narrative of the American West. By showcasing the historical and ongoing presence of diverse communities within rodeo, these events disrupt traditional portrayals and offer a more accurate and inclusive representation of the sport’s history. This act of reclaiming historical space provides a powerful counter-narrative to the erasure or marginalization often experienced by these communities.
-
Creating Inclusive Spaces
These rodeos create intentionally inclusive spaces where individuals from marginalized backgrounds feel welcomed, respected, and celebrated. This inclusivity fosters a sense of belonging and empowers participants, creating a positive ripple effect within the broader rodeo community. Such events also offer opportunities for cross-cultural exchange and understanding, breaking down stereotypes and building bridges between diverse groups.
-
Providing Platforms for Recognition
Events like these provide crucial platforms for recognizing the achievements and contributions of cowboys and cowgirls of color. This recognition extends beyond athletic skill to encompass cultural heritage, historical significance, and community leadership. By highlighting these contributions, the rodeo elevates the voices and experiences of historically marginalized groups and promotes a more equitable and representative portrayal of the sport.
-
Inspiring Future Generations
By showcasing successful role models and celebrating diverse talent, cowboys of color rodeos inspire future generations from underrepresented communities. These events demonstrate that rodeo is a space where everyone can belong and excel, regardless of background. This inspiration can have a profound impact on young people, encouraging participation, broadening aspirations, and fostering a more diverse and inclusive future for the sport.
These facets of diversity and inclusion intertwine to shape the significance of a 2025 cowboys of color rodeo. The event becomes more than just a competition; it evolves into a powerful statement about representation, equity, and the ongoing evolution of Western culture. By centering historically marginalized communities, celebrating their achievements, and creating inclusive spaces, these rodeos contribute to a more just and representative portrayal of rodeo and its rich, diverse history. This focus on diversity and inclusion not only strengthens the rodeo community but also holds broader societal implications, promoting understanding, challenging prejudice, and inspiring positive change beyond the arena.
7. Challenging Stereotypes
The concept of a “cowboys of color rodeo 2025” inherently challenges prevailing stereotypes about race and belonging within the Western and rodeo traditions. Historically, portrayals of cowboys in popular culture have often been limited to a narrow and homogenized image, largely excluding or marginalizing the contributions of Black, Indigenous, and other non-white individuals. This event directly confronts these limited representations by showcasing the skills, achievements, and cultural heritage of cowboys and cowgirls of color. This challenge to stereotypical narratives has both symbolic and practical significance.
The historical erasure or minimization of non-white cowboys creates a distorted understanding of the American West. Events like this rodeo serve as a corrective, providing a platform for historically marginalized communities to reclaim their place within the narrative. The very presence of skilled Black, Indigenous, and other non-white rodeo athletes challenges the assumption that cowboy culture is exclusively white. Furthermore, these events often highlight the unique cultural traditions and contributions of these communities, further enriching the understanding of Western heritage. The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, for example, has played a crucial role in highlighting the history and contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls, directly challenging stereotypical portrayals. Similarly, the Indian National Finals Rodeo provides a platform for Indigenous rodeo athletes to showcase their skills and celebrate their cultural heritage. These real-world examples demonstrate the tangible impact of such events in challenging stereotypes and promoting more inclusive representations of the West.
The practical significance of challenging these stereotypes extends beyond simply correcting historical inaccuracies. By presenting diverse role models and celebrating a broader range of experiences within rodeo, these events can inspire future generations from underrepresented communities. They foster a sense of belonging and encourage participation in a space that may have previously felt exclusionary. Moreover, challenging stereotypes within rodeo contributes to broader societal efforts to dismantle prejudice and promote inclusivity. It reinforces the message that talent and achievement are not limited by race or ethnicity, fostering a more equitable and representative understanding of Western culture and the rodeo tradition.
8. Promoting Equity
Promoting equity forms a central tenet of the envisioned 2025 cowboys of color rodeo. While diversity celebrates difference and inclusion welcomes participation, equity focuses on addressing systemic barriers and historical disadvantages to ensure fair access, opportunity, and recognition. Within the context of rodeo, promoting equity requires acknowledging and actively dismantling the historical and ongoing disparities that have marginalized Black, Indigenous, and other non-white cowboys and cowgirls. This commitment to equity extends beyond simply inviting participation; it requires creating pathways for success, addressing systemic biases, and fostering a level playing field where all individuals can thrive.
-
Access to Resources and Training
Historically, cowboys of color have faced significant barriers to accessing the resources and training necessary to compete at the highest levels of rodeo. This includes limited access to quality horses, equipment, coaching, and competitive opportunities. Promoting equity in this context requires investing in programs that provide these resources to aspiring rodeo athletes from underrepresented communities. This may involve scholarships, mentorship programs, or the development of dedicated training facilities in underserved areas. Initiatives like the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo offer scholarships and mentorship to support the next generation of Black rodeo athletes, illustrating a practical approach to promoting equity through resource allocation.
-
Addressing Bias in Judging and Competition
Bias, whether conscious or unconscious, can significantly impact judging and competition within rodeo. Promoting equity requires implementing strategies to mitigate bias and ensure fair evaluation of all participants. This may include diversifying judging panels, implementing standardized judging criteria, and providing training on implicit bias for judges and officials. The Indian National Finals Rodeo provides a dedicated space for Indigenous rodeo athletes to compete, free from the potential biases they might face in mainstream rodeo circuits, demonstrating an alternative approach to ensuring fair competition.
-
Media Representation and Storytelling
Media portrayals play a powerful role in shaping public perception and influencing opportunities within rodeo. Historically, media coverage has often overlooked or marginalized the contributions of cowboys and cowgirls of color. Promoting equity requires actively working to change these narratives, ensuring that diverse voices and stories are represented in media coverage, documentaries, and other forms of storytelling. Highlighting the achievements of contemporary Black, Indigenous, and other non-white rodeo stars in mainstream media can challenge stereotypes and create more inclusive and representative portrayals of the sport.
-
Sponsorship and Economic Opportunities
Sponsorship and endorsements play a crucial role in supporting rodeo athletes’ careers. Historically, cowboys of color have faced disparities in accessing these economic opportunities. Promoting equity requires actively engaging sponsors and brands to invest in diverse athletes and ensure equitable distribution of sponsorship dollars. Targeted initiatives to connect sponsors with talented rodeo athletes from underrepresented communities can help level the playing field and provide crucial financial support for their careers.
These interconnected facets of promoting equity work together to create a more just and inclusive environment within the rodeo community. The “cowboys of color rodeo 2025” provides a focal point for advancing these equity-focused initiatives. By addressing historical disparities, creating pathways for success, and challenging systemic biases, these events not only celebrate diversity but also actively work towards creating a more equitable and representative future for the sport. This commitment to equity benefits not only individual athletes but also strengthens the rodeo community as a whole, enriching the sport with a broader range of talent, perspectives, and cultural traditions.
9. Celebrating Achievement
Celebrating achievement forms a cornerstone of the “cowboys of color rodeo 2025” concept. This celebration serves a dual purpose: it acknowledges individual excellence within the sport while simultaneously highlighting the broader historical and cultural significance of these achievements. By recognizing the accomplishments of Black, Indigenous, and other non-white cowboys and cowgirls, the event challenges historical narratives that often overlooked or minimized their contributions. This celebration has profound implications, impacting individual athletes, their communities, and the broader perception of Western heritage.
The act of celebrating achievement within this specific context transcends individual accolades. It becomes a powerful statement about resilience, perseverance, and the breaking down of barriers. Consider the historical context: cowboys of color faced systemic discrimination and exclusion, often denied opportunities to compete on equal footing. Their achievements, therefore, represent not only exceptional skill but also a triumph over adversity. Celebrating these achievements serves as a powerful counter-narrative to historical marginalization, amplifying their significance and inspiring future generations. Examples like the annual Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo demonstrate the powerful impact of celebrating achievement within a dedicated space. The rodeo honors the legacy of Bill Pickett, a Black cowboy and rodeo innovator, while providing a platform for contemporary Black rodeo athletes to showcase their skills and receive recognition for their accomplishments. This recognition fosters a sense of pride, strengthens community bonds, and challenges stereotypical portrayals of cowboys and Western culture.
The practical significance of celebrating achievement within the “cowboys of color rodeo 2025” context is multifaceted. It provides a platform for recognition and validation, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment for individual athletes. This celebration also inspires future generations, demonstrating that success is attainable regardless of background or historical circumstance. Furthermore, by highlighting the achievements of cowboys and cowgirls of color, the event challenges stereotypes and promotes a more inclusive and representative understanding of Western heritage. This, in turn, contributes to broader societal efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. The celebration of achievement becomes a catalyst for positive change, fostering a more just and equitable future for the sport and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding rodeos that celebrate cowboys of color, providing factual information and clarifying potential misconceptions.
Question 1: Why are rodeos specifically for cowboys of color necessary?
These rodeos address historical underrepresentation and celebrate the rich cultural contributions of Black, Indigenous, and other non-white cowboys and cowgirls, fostering inclusivity and challenging stereotypical narratives within the Western and rodeo traditions.
Question 2: Are these rodeos exclusive to certain racial or ethnic groups?
While they center on historically marginalized communities, many are open to spectators and participants of all backgrounds, promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation for diverse traditions.
Question 3: How do these rodeos differ from mainstream rodeo events?
In addition to standard rodeo competitions, these events often incorporate cultural elements specific to participating communities, such as traditional music, dance, attire, and storytelling, providing a richer and more nuanced understanding of Western heritage.
Question 4: Do these rodeos contribute to racial segregation?
Rather than promoting segregation, these events aim to rectify historical erasure and create inclusive spaces within the broader rodeo community, ultimately fostering greater diversity and representation within the sport.
Question 5: What is the significance of highlighting cultural heritage in these rodeos?
Showcasing the unique cultural traditions of participating communities preserves valuable aspects of Western history, challenges homogenized narratives, and fosters a deeper appreciation for the diverse influences shaping rodeo and cowboy culture.
Question 6: How can attending or supporting these rodeos contribute to positive change?
Supporting these events promotes inclusivity within the rodeo community, challenges stereotypes, and contributes to a more accurate and representative portrayal of Western heritage, ultimately fostering greater understanding and appreciation for diversity.
Understanding the historical context and cultural significance of these rodeos provides valuable insights into their importance within the broader landscape of Western and rodeo traditions. These events contribute to a more inclusive, representative, and equitable future for the sport.
Further sections will explore specific examples of rodeos celebrating cowboys of color, highlighting their impact and showcasing individual stories of achievement and cultural preservation.
Tips for Attending and Supporting Cowboys of Color Rodeos
This section offers practical guidance for those interested in attending and supporting rodeos celebrating cowboys of color. These tips aim to enhance the experience while contributing to the positive impact of these events.
Tip 1: Research the Specific Event: Understanding the historical and cultural context of the specific rodeo enhances appreciation. Researching participating organizations, featured athletes, and any unique cultural traditions showcased provides a richer experience.
Tip 2: Engage Respectfully with Cultural Elements: Demonstrating respect for cultural traditions showcased is crucial. This includes observing appropriate etiquette during ceremonies, performances, or demonstrations. Seeking information about cultural protocols beforehand shows consideration and fosters mutual understanding.
Tip 3: Support Participating Businesses and Organizations: Many rodeos feature vendors and organizations representing local communities. Supporting these businesses contributes directly to the economic well-being of these communities and strengthens the event’s overall impact.
Tip 4: Amplify Diverse Voices: Sharing information about the rodeo and its participants through social media and other channels extends the event’s reach and amplifies diverse voices within the rodeo community. Highlighting individual stories and achievements helps challenge stereotypical narratives and promotes broader recognition.
Tip 5: Engage in Meaningful Dialogue: These events offer valuable opportunities for cross-cultural exchange. Engaging in respectful conversations with participants and attendees can foster greater understanding, break down stereotypes, and build bridges between communities.
Tip 6: Learn About the History of Cowboys of Color: Deepening one’s knowledge of the historical contributions of Black, Indigenous, and other non-white cowboys enriches the rodeo experience and fosters a more accurate and nuanced understanding of Western heritage.
Tip 7: Support Organizations Promoting Diversity in Rodeo: Numerous organizations work to promote diversity and inclusion within rodeo. Supporting these organizations through donations or volunteer work contributes to their long-term efforts to create a more equitable and representative sport.
By following these tips, attendees contribute not only to their own enjoyment but also to the positive social and cultural impact of these important events. Supporting cowboys of color rodeos fosters inclusivity, challenges stereotypes, and celebrates the rich diversity of Western heritage.
The following conclusion synthesizes key themes and underscores the lasting importance of rodeos celebrating cowboys of color.
Conclusion
Exploration of the “cowboys of color rodeo 2025” concept reveals its multifaceted significance. Such events serve as powerful platforms for celebrating achievement, challenging historical narratives, promoting diversity and inclusion, and fostering community building. Examination of cultural heritage preservation, skill showcases, and the challenging of stereotypes underscores the importance of these events in reshaping perceptions of Western traditions. Addressing historical inequities and promoting equity within the rodeo world emerges as a central theme, highlighting the need for continued efforts to create a more inclusive and representative sport. Inspiring future generations through positive representation and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities forms a crucial aspect of these rodeos, emphasizing their potential for lasting impact.
The “cowboys of color rodeo 2025” concept signifies more than just a sporting event; it represents a movement towards greater recognition, representation, and equity within rodeo and beyond. Continued support for these events and related initiatives remains crucial for fostering a more inclusive and accurate portrayal of Western heritage, ensuring the vibrant legacy of cowboys and cowgirls of color continues to shape the future of this iconic American sport.
