Black Rodeo USA Blog

Black Rodeo USA, National Western Stock Show Partner For 20th Annual MLK Jr. African-American Heritage Rodeo

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 18:19:58 GMT

KEEPING A TRADITION ALIVE IN DENVER

Black Rodeo USA is ready to bring its high-energy “Hottest Show On Dirt” experience to Denver during the National Western Stock Show (January 10-25, 2026) as the newly-selected production partner of the annual MLK Jr. African-American Heritage Rodeo.

The featured event will be 6pm Monday, January 19, 2026, at Denver Coliseum, 4600 N. Humboldt Street, Denver, CO 80216. In association with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Colorado Holiday Commission, the rodeo – in its 20th year – is a much-anticipated tradition to celebrate to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., while showcasing premier African-American cowboys and cowgirls from across the country.

National Western Stock Show, celebrating its 120th anniversary, announced the new partnership in October 2025.

“Partnering with National Western Stock Show is a tremendous honor for Black Rodeo USA,” said Lanette Campbell, founder and CEO of Black Rodeo USA, which marks its fifth anniversary of touring. “Producing the MLK Jr. African American Heritage Rodeo in Denver allows us to celebrate world-class rodeo, honor legacy, and connect directly with communities in a city that truly values Western tradition and inclusion.”

As the nation approaches major milestones with America’s 250th birthday this year and the upcoming centennial birthdays of Mrs. Coretta Scott King (2027) and Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (2029), BRUSA – together with NWSS – is poised to elevate the rich history of the roles African Americans played in shaping rodeo culture.

BRUSA and the Colorado MLK Holiday Commission will honor hometown heroes who exhibit the Dr. King’s “Beloved Community” values of love, dignity, service, courage and compassion, as well as recognize community dignitaries as they enter the arena on stagecoaches.

Fans will experience rodeo events like bronc riding, barrel racing, bull riding, and the youth-favorite mutton bustin’. New this year also will be a Pony Express showcase. Plus, they will meet Miss Black Rodeo USA Mariah Beckom, of Mississippi, and BRUSA’s official mascot Byron The Bull.

The January event kicks off BRUSA’s 2026 season, which will include rodeos in Oklahoma, Tennessee, Florida, Arizona, Nevada and Texas. BRUSA will return to Golden, Colorado in the fall.

The MLK Jr African-American Heritage Rodeo will start promptly at 6pm. Tickets are on sale via Ticketmaster and select local outlets. All tickets allow access for Grounds Admission the day of the event. Parking is free in NWSS lots.

Discount promo codes are available for lower-level seating. Visit BlackRodeoUSA.com to register for a code and for more information. Call 602-688-9906 ext. 0 (for a Denver representative) or ext. 3 (for ticket information).

About Black Rodeo USA:

The Black Rodeo USA story started in 2008, when Lanette Campbell joined the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Association as the Arizona coordinator. By 2011, she founded the Arizona Black Rodeo Association and was able to host a Black rodeo as an official event of the Arizona Centennial Legacy Project in 2012. As the flagship rodeo, Arizona Black Rodeo is approaching its 15th year and was named Best Rodeo by Top10 USA Today in 2025 and 2024. The mission of Black Rodeo USA, which embarked on touring in 2020, focuses on six key core values: Youth, Community, Agriculture, Education, Health and Entertainment. Its rodeo events are gathering places where family values and Western heritage are honored, and individuals of all ages are entertained, educated and enriched.

About National Western Stock Show:

Founded in 1906, the National Western Stock Show is one of the world’s premier agricultural and Western heritage events, hosting top-tier livestock shows, rodeo competitions, and cultural programming in Denver, Colorado.

Black Rodeo USA made an official announcement November 17, 2025, acknowledging the partnership with National Western Stock Show:

Black Rodeo USA is excited to announce it will be a new production partner with National Western Stock Show – celebrating 120 years of heritage, community and world-class Western entertainment – to continue the longstanding MLK Jr African-American Heritage Rodeo – its 20th year – on MLK Day 2026 in Denver, Colorado. The event’s mission is to honor African-American rodeo athletes, to preserve Western heritage, and to inspire future generations through the message and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

A Thank You To Our Fans

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 02:16:36 GMT

WRAPPING UP THE 2025 SEASON

As we quickly approach the end of the year, we wanted to take this time to wrap up our 2025 season with a heartfelt “THANK YOU!”

From February to October, we traveled to Oklahoma, Tennessee, Florida, Missouri and Nevada . Many of you traveled from all over the U.S. to join us in a celebration of “heritage, history and hope.” We truly appreciate your support as well as your enthusiasm for Black Rodeo and for those who make it their passion to put their grit on the dirt.

In addition to the Black cowboys and cowgirls, YOU are the reason why we do what we do, as we strive to create lasting memories for all ages on the dirt and beyond.

Since Black Rodeo USA launched from our flagship state of Arizona, we have learned a great deal on this journey. We got a lot right... as well as got some things wrong. Yet, we are committed to improving to make each show and each year “the hottest.” For the upcoming year, we have implemented ways to enhance the fan experience and to ensure that you leave with a broad smile and a warm heart. >>> Stay tuned, as we will be reaching out with more details on what you can expect, and how some things will be different and better than in the past.

As we get set to embark on our milestone FIVE YEARS of touring the Black Rodeo USA Experience AND the 15th ANNIVERSARY of our flagship rodeo in Arizona, we hope you will:

Plan to ride with us
Keep spreading the word about the magic of Black Rodeo, and
Continue providing us with your feedback...

... so we can better serve you with the best our culture has to offer!!!

We realize the recent months and life in general can bring challenges and hardships, so we wish that you will FIND JOY DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON AND IN THE YEAR TO COME! See you soon at some dirt near you!

Black Rodeo USA Hosts Virtual Open House, Watch Party For Peacock's "High Horse" Docufilm

Sat, 08 Nov 2025 17:01:22 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Mariah Beckom Assumes Miss Black Rodeo USA Role; Official Coronation In Hometown Mississippi

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 00:32:15 GMT

Miss Black Rodeo USA Queen Steps Down, Jr Miss Black Rodeo USA Steps Up

With the close of the 2025 Black Rodeo USA season set to take place in Las Vegas, Nevada for the fourth annual Las Vegas Invitational Black Rodeo, Black Rodeo USA Foundation announces a transition in Miss Black Rodeo USA titles. Samirah Miller, named Miss Black Rodeo USA in August, will be stepping away to pursue new endeavors.

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to Samirah Miller," states Miss Black Rodeo USA Pageant Director Lynn Spain. "We are excited to announce that Mariah Beckom from Columbus, Mississippi, will be accepting the title of Miss Black Rodeo USA. Mariah brings a wealth of experience, energy and vision to the position, and we are confident she will continue to elevate our mission and inspire excellence across the organization."

Beckom's official crowning will take place 7pm Saturday, Nov. 15, at Sim Scott Community Center in Columbus, Mississippi. The "Denim & Diamonds" themed coronation, presented by TaePresents, will include dinner, music, cash bar, refreshments, live auction and photographs. The venue is located at 909 20th Street, N Columbus, MS 39701. Doors open at 6pm. Tickets are $40 in advance ($50 at the door) via Yapsody, Black Rodeo USA's official ticketing platform.

Prior to the coronation, will be a Community Pony And Horse Fundraising Ride open to all ages and skill levels to connect, learn and ride confidently; it will be from 2-5pm at the Sim Scott Community Center. Limited participation is available. Registration is $10 available online via BlackRodeoUSA.com.

Miss Black Rodeo USA is now accepting applications for contestants, volunteers and sponsors for the 2026 season and pageant. Interested applicants can learn more at BlackRodeoUSA.com for eligibility details, deadlines and to apply.

Black Rodeo USA Foundation Introduces Inaugural Miss Black Rodeo USA, Jr Miss Black Rodeo USA

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 19:05:22 GMT

Rodeo Queens Make First Appearance During 14th Annual Arizona Invitational Black Rodeo Labor Day Weekend In Scottsdale

Black Rodeo USA Foundation is proud to announce the winners of its inaugural Miss Black Rodeo USA Pageant. Samirah Aliyah Miller , 29, of Gilbert, Ariz., and Mariah Patrice Beckom , 25, of Columbus, Miss., were crowned Miss Black Rodeo USA and Jr Miss Black Rodeo USA, respectively.

During the 70th Annual Okmulgee Roy LeBlanc Invitational Rodeo – one of the largest and oldest Black rodeos in the country hosted in Oklahoma held the second weekend in August – the rodeo queens were crowned their honors after being judged on Horsemanship, Personality, Appearance and Photogenic. They were required to execute the set pattern and other designated maneuvers, perform a sponsor flag run and make a queen presentation run. They also took part in a personal interview and impromptu questions as well as presented a speech on a topic of their choice.

"It has been a pleasure to launch this program for Black Rodeo USA", said Miss Black Rodeo USA Pageant Director Lynn Spain, who has managed rodeo pageants in Oklahoma and beyond for decades. "We were looking for young ladies that understood the significance of this moment, and Samirah and Mariah are the perfect examples of poise, confidence and Western culture. They will serve as powerful ambassadors and mentors for future pageant participants."

The rodeo queens were introduced during Black Rodeo USA's flagship rodeo, the 14th Annual Arizona Invitational Black Rodeo, held Labor Day Weekend Aug. 29-31, 2025, at WestWorld of Scottsdale – a three-day roundup of events with sell-out crowds and new offerings such as: Shining Spurs Program as part of the Kidz Rodeo Experience; Byron The Bull mascot; Pony Express; and a special exhibition featuring bull riding and ranch bronc riding. The theme for the 2025 season is "Celebrating Heritage, History & Hope."

"Having the Miss Black Rodeo USA program featured this year illustrates that 'Hope' we aimed to highlight with our theme," stated Black Rodeo USA General Manager Jesse Guillory, who served as one of the judges for the pageant. "My passion for rodeo was sparked at a young age growing up on Texas farmlands, and this program will inspire so many young girls and women to define their life's journey. We can't wait to see what unfolds in the years to come."

Miller and Beckom are excited about fulfilling their duties with Miss Black Rodeo USA and making intentional impacts in their communities.

“I’m honored to be the inaugural Miss Black Rodeo Queen of Black Rodeo USA – not just for me, but for every little girl and boy who dreams of riding tall in the saddle," Miller, who has been involved with rodeo since 9, posted to her social media. "This crown is more than a title, it’s a symbol of visibility, representation, and the power of our Black cowgirl and cowboy heritage. Our community’s history is written in the dust of the arena, the rhythm of the rodeo, and the legacy of those who came before us. I wear this title to make sure our stories are seen, heard and celebrated for generations to come."

On Beckom's application she stated she had a late start to the rodeo lifestyle but is eager to use her "voice and presence to highlight the rich legacy of Black rodeo, support rural and urban communities, and stand as a role model for young girls who may not yet see themselves in this space."

“I want to be involved with Miss Black Rodeo USA because I believe in the power of representation, tradition, new beginnings and community services. This platform not only celebrates the heritage and contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls, but also uplifts strong confident women who embody leadership, grace and cultural pride."

Miller and Beckom, who will make appearances at official rodeos of Black Rodeo USA during their 2025-2026 reign, are set to participate at the fourth annual Las Vegas Invitational Black Rodeo Oct 17-18, at Horseman's Park in Las Vegas, Nev. – the final rodeo event for BRUSA's 2025 season. They also will appear at various community events, which will include school visits, sponsor-related visits, radio and television appearances, and other equine- or livestock-related events. During the Arizona Black Rodeo Labor Day Weekend, Miller and Beckom were hosted by Boot Barn Scottsdale Friday, Aug. 29, for an autograph signing and meet and greet.

"We are grateful to have Boot Barn as an ongoing sponsor of our rodeo events, " said Black Rodeo USA Founder and CEO Lanette Campbell. "It is truly inspiring to partner with a company that is so deeply committed to community and western culture. We look forward to strengthening our relationship as we approach our 15th anniversary of Arizona Black Rodeo in 2026."

Pageant sponsors included: Crown To Spur Consulting LLC; Kruse Air & Heat LLC; ArrowheadNow; Blue Ridge Rags; Mike's Custom Leather and Saddle Shop; Rhinestone Lip Gloss; Sharpe's Department Stores; and The Rodeo Tex-Mex Restaurant.

The 2026 pageant program will begin accepting applications for its two divisions starting November. For additional information about Miss Black Rodeo USA or Jr Miss Black Rodeo USA and to learn more about the program and ways to support, call 602-688-9906 or email missbrusa@blackrodeousa.com.

"Miss Black Rodeo USA is more than a crown," Beckom noted. "It’s a commitment to advocacy, excellence and authenticity, and I am ready to 'ride' to that challenge.”

Danell Tipton Named Cowboy Of The Year

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 05:57:51 GMT

INAUGURAL MEN OF COLOR EXPO HONORS OKLAHOMA TITANS

A black-tie affair to celebrate and to honor exceptional men who uplift communities, break barriers and lead with excellence. took place Thursday, June 12, at The Bryant Center in Oklahoma City.

The inaugural Men of Color Expo as part of Juneteenth Music and Arts Festival – presented by Tinker Federal Credit Union and Perry Publishing & Broadcasting – was an initiative by The Black Chronicle. The newspaper called upon the community to shine a spotlight on the outstanding men making a difference. Community members were encouraged to nominate deserving men in public service, education, business, family, religion and other areas.

The Black Chronicle newspaper, a weekly periodical servicing the Oklahoma City metro area's African-American community, has grown into one of the largest paid weekly newspapers in Oklahoma. Currently, the publication serves the entire state of Oklahoma, including Tulsa, Lawton/Ft. Sill and Oklahoma City.

Top honors went to Oklahoma City Chief of Police Ron Bacy as Man of the Year, while Lifetime Achievement Awards went to Rev. Major L. Jemison (senior pastor of St. John Missionary Baptist Church in Oklahoma City) and Horace Stevenson (franchise owner and entrepreneur). Hasan K Jeffries, an author, history professor at Ohio State University and brother of Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, served as the keynote speaker. Black Rodeo USA's own Danell Tipton was recognized as Cowboy of the Year.

About Danell Tipton

Danell Tipton (or Tip to his friends) was born and raised in Spencer, Oklahoma, into a family active in rodeo life. Danell – inducted into the National Multicultural Western Heritage Hall of Fame in Fort Worth, Texas in 2015 – has a sign in his hometown that reads: “Welcome to Spencer, home of World Championship Bull Rider Danell Tipton.”

The professional bull rider – who participated in as many 130 rodeos a year at one time – has been involved with rodeos since he was 2 years old. Jumping on his first junior bull at the East Side Round Up Club in Choctaw, he lasted seven seconds. Then, the course of his life changed forever. Beginning his career of bull riding at 11, he entered the professional world of bull riding in 1992 – at 19 – when he became a member of the International Pro Rodeo Association. The following year, he made the finals finishing seventh in the world. By 1995, he earned the title of World Champion Bull Rider, making him only the second African American in the world to achieve this title. When he joined the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association in 1998, he took home Rookie of the Year and Bull Riding World titles.

He joined the police force to combat what he was seeing happening to youth upon his return from traveling the rodeo circuit. He encouraged teens to see harsh reality of a life of poor choices by touring the state penitentiary and even funeral homes. Eventually, it led to opening a sports facility for youth and the community.

Inspired by his mentor by Jesse Guillory, Danell continues to be a trailblazer in the rodeo world as well as in his community as he works to uphold his hometown’s cowboy legacy that has existed since the early 1850s. He is highly sought after across the United States to produce and judge all levels of rodeo. Danell is founder of Another Rodeo Production and Danell Tipton Youth Rodeo Camp, as well as a co-founder of The National Black Cowboy Rodeo Awards & Gala . He appears in the documentary films Riding Legacy: An Oklahoma Black Cowboy Story (2023) and Shut Up & Ride (2022,) and a television episode of “Stateline” (2014).

Oklahoma Invitational Black Rodeo Rides Into Tulsa To Kick Off 2025 Season Of 'Celebrating Heritage, History, Hope'

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 19:58:22 GMT

Black Rodeo USA Debuts Oklahoma Invitational Black Rodeo In Tulsa

The Oklahoma Invitational Black Rodeo will be the opening event for Black Rodeo USA's 2025 season – themed "Celebrating Heritage, History & Hope" – when it heads to Tulsa for two Black History Month shows Saturday, February 8, at Ford Truck Arena - Tulsa Fairgrounds, 145 E. 21st Street. The events will be 1pm and 7pm.

"We are excited and honored to celebrate Black History Month in Tulsa with its storied history of resilience and rebirth," Black Rodeo USA President and CEO Lanette Campbell stated. "In addition to the entertainment – known as 'The Hottest Show On Dirt!' – it will be an opportunity to educate rodeo fans about a unique cultural heritage and the role African and Black Americans had in the West, as well as to inspire a young generation to develop a desire and appreciation for the sport."

February also marks National Black Rodeo Appreciation Month, founded by BRUSA in 2023. First-timer and long-standing fans and contestants experience a special gathering of community, camaraderie and possibilities at Black Rodeo USA events year-round. Having produced smaller events in the state during past years, Black Rodeo USA – in its fourth year of touring rodeos – debuts its largest event of action-packed competitions in Oklahoma for veteran and emerging Black cowboys and cowgirls who yearn for representation as they hone their skills and increase their passion for all things rodeo.

"My vision and drive will be to add as much entertainment, excitement and thrills to what is already a great event, as well as informing and keeping the untold story of the history of the Black cowboy," said Jesse Guillory, the newly appointed general manager. "As I step in these new boots to fulfill this role, I see nothing but greatness for the organization, the cowboy and especially the fans."

The Tulsa shows will feature local and national African-American rodeo competitors vying for more than $11,000 in cash prizes, as they participate in: bull riding; tie down roping; steer wrestling; ranch bronc; ladies steer undecorating; ladies barrels; team roping; and pony express. Young competitors also will participate in junior barrels and mutton bustin'.

Gates open at 11:30am and 5:30pm, respectively. Tickets are $25. Visit BlackRodeoUSA.com to purchase tickets and for more information. Sponsorship opportunities and limited spaces for vendors also are available; please email info@ blackrodeousa.com or call 602-688-9906.

Entries for contestants will open 10am Monday, Jan. 27, and close 10pm Sunday, Feb. 2. During that time, interested competitors can call 405-367-6057 and 405-342-0612. For up-to-date contestant information, visit https://flowpage.com/brusacontestant.

About Black Rodeo USA

The Black Rodeo USA story started in 2008, when Lanette Campbell joined the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo Association as the Arizona coordinator. By 2011, she founded the Arizona Black Rodeo Association and was able to host a Black rodeo as an official event of the Arizona Centennial Legacy Project in 2012. As the flagship rodeo, Arizona Black Rodeo is approaching its 14th year and was named Best Rodeo by Top10 USA Today in 2024. The mission of Black Rodeo USA, which embarked on touring in 2020, focuses on six key core values: Youth, Community, Agriculture, Education, Health and Entertainment. Its rodeo events are gathering places where family values and Western heritage are honored, and individuals of all ages are entertained, educated and enriched.

About National Black Rodeo Appreciation Month

Historians estimate one in four cowboys was Black. Yet, African-American cowboys didn't play a part in the popular narrative and many times continue to be left out of the conversation. Founded by Black Rodeo USA in 2023, National Black Rodeo Appreciation Month coincides with Black History Month to give Black rodeo fans and all rodeo fans an opportunity to celebrate and to honor the history of Black cowboys and cowgirls, to show their love for the sport and its participants and to gain a deeper appreciation of the role Black cowboys had in shaping the West.

About Jesse Guillory 

Jesse Guillory, of Texas, has always loved the western way of life and longed to be a cowboy. His journey as a cowboy includes competing in rodeo events, being a horse trainer, working in rodeo management, and chief field representative for International Pro Rodeo.