Experiencing the Roy LeBlanc Invitational Rodeo: Celebrating 70 Years of Black Cowboy Tradition

Attending the Nation’s Oldest African American Rodeo

Last month, I had the privilege of attending the Roy LeBlanc Invitational Rodeo in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. It is the nation's oldest African American Rodeo which has been running for 70 years to date. 

My Journey to the Roy LeBlanc Rodeo

I went alongside Dr. Alicia Odewale, a research archaeologist, as an ongoing effort to capture and continue to share the stories of Black Cowboys, Black Towns, and Black Freedom. My only experience attending a rodeo was at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, therefore I truly did not know what to expect. The Roy LeBlanc Invitational was better hands down. 

Feeling Community & First Time Feelings

I felt a deep sense of community amongst the crowd as I walked the grounds. I was filled with a mixture of anxiety, excitement and shock as this was my first time photographing a rodeo, and to document this was even more special. 

In the bleachers, where I covered the rodeo, I met a seasoned rodeo photographer who has been covering the rodeo for  years. His insights on the run of the show was super helpful and made my experience seamless overall. Minutes after our conversation the rodeo began —the Grand Entry had me completely in awe. 

The Grand Entry: A Powerful & Emotional Moment

Cowboys and cow girls rode out carrying their respective flags. There followed rodeo participants and others, including young kids on horses back with and without an adult. As mentioned having never experienced an all Black rodeo, it was powerful, emotional, and vibrant. I recently read that the Roy LeBlanc Rodeo is the “Super Bowl of Black Rodeos” and I understand after attending. 

Through the Lens: Photography & Reflection

I relived the experience as I reviewed my  photographs, I could not help but smile. I felt a deep sense of gratitude and self pride for stepping into an unfamiliar space and capturing the story and history and for witnessing a thriving tradition fueled by resilience, pride, community and culture of black cowboys and girls. 

Preserving and Sharing Black Cowboy Stories:

Here are some of my favorite photographs from the Roy LeBlanc Rodeo that capture this story:

Next year, I plan to attend the Roy LeBlanc Rodeo and bring others to experience the stories beyond my photographs. The sounds, the energy, the smell – just everything.