Beyoncé Knowles-Carter is making a significant impact by shining a spotlight on Black cowboys and equestrian culture, not just through her music but also through her philanthropic efforts. Her foundation, BeyGOOD, has taken a deep interest in supporting the rich, yet often overlooked, history of Black cowboys, cowgirls, farmers, and ranchers. This history is vital to understanding the full narrative of the American West, yet it has been largely ignored in mainstream media and history books. By focusing on these communities, Beyoncé is helping to preserve and celebrate a crucial part of Black heritage that has shaped the American landscape.
In an effort to uplift and sustain these traditions, BeyGOOD has been partnering with the annual Bill Pickett Rodeo, a historic event that has been the heartbeat of Black cowboy culture for four decades. The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, recognized as the longest-running Black rodeo in the United States, is a crucial gathering for Black cowboys and cowgirls to showcase their skills and preserve their legacy. Through its Equestrian program, BeyGOOD has committed $500,000 in grants to support these communities, demonstrating a strong commitment to ensuring that this important cultural heritage is not lost to history.
According to WBLS, the BeyGOOD Foundation has already made a tangible impact by participating in the Los Angeles and Atlanta stops of the Bill Pickett Rodeo. At these events, the foundation awarded $25,000 in grants to various organizations that are deeply rooted in the Black equestrian community. Among the recipients were Urban Saddles, Love This Equine and Horse Rescue, The Black Cultural Enlightenment Society/Black Cowboy Festival, the South Carolina Black Farmers Coalition, and SOOFA Ranch. Each of these organizations plays a vital role in promoting and sustaining Black equestrian and agricultural traditions.
Founded by Beyoncé in 2013, BeyGOOD started as an initiative to support global causes and has now evolved into a 501(c)(3) public charity, known as the BeyGOOD Foundation. Over the past decade, BeyGOOD has engaged in numerous humanitarian efforts, from providing scholarships to addressing the water crisis in Burundi, and aiding families affected by Hurricane Harvey in Houston. Beyoncé’s vision for the foundation is to continue building partnerships through innovative programs that have a lasting impact on communities around the world.
One of the youngest beneficiaries of the BeyGOOD Equestrian Grants is nine-year-old Kendall Rae Johnson, the youngest farmer in Georgia and the owner of Green Heart. Her success story is a testament to the importance of nurturing the next generation of Black farmers and equestrians. The support provided by the BeyGOOD Foundation is crucial in helping young entrepreneurs like Kendall Rae continue their work and inspire future generations.
The significance of this initiative cannot be overstated. By supporting these grants, the BeyGOOD Foundation is not just providing financial assistance; it is affirming the value of Black agricultural and equestrian traditions in the broader American story. These efforts ensure that the legacies of Black cowboys, farmers, and ranchers are recognized and celebrated, rather than forgotten. To learn more about the recipients and the work of the BeyGOOD Foundation, visit BeyGOOD.org
