The rodeo isn’t just a white dude’s playground anymore, and we’re here for it.

Black cowboys are galloping back into the spotlight, proving that Western culture is way more diverse than Hollywood ever showed us. Take Valyncia Brooks, a 36-year-old powerhouse from Oakland who’s been dominating the rodeo scene since she was six years old.

Breaking Stereotypes, One Lasso at a Time

Brooks and her crew of Black cowboys from the Bay Area are challenging every single stereotype about who belongs in the saddle. From barrel racing to steer undecorating, these riders are showing that cowboy culture isn’t just about John Wayne - it’s about representation, passion, and serious skill.

Riding Against Erasure

The Bill Pickett Rodeo, now in its 41st year, has been instrumental in showcasing Black cowboy heritage. Named after Bill Pickett, the first Black rodeo performer inducted into the National Rodeo Hall of Fame, the event continues to amplify stories that mainstream history tried to silence.

More Than Just a Sport

For folks like Brandyn Hartfield, rodeo is about more than competition - it’s about creating visibility and inspiring future generations of Black cowboys. “In California, there still aren’t a whole lot of us,” Hartfield says, “but we’re making a difference”.

The message is clear: Black cowboys have always existed, and they’re here to stay.