Beyoncé’s BeyGood charity is making waves in the world of philanthropy and equestrian culture by committing a substantial $500,000 to support Black cowboys and cowgirls through the Bill Pickett Rodeo. This generous donation aligns with the foundation’s mission to amplify the voices and contributions of Black equestrians.
The Bill Pickett Rodeo, established in 1984, holds the distinction of being the longest-running Black rodeo in the United States. Celebrating its 40th year, the rodeo is renowned for honoring the legacy and contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls in shaping the American West. The event has become a cornerstone of Black equestrian culture, and Beyoncé’s involvement underscores its significance.
Beyoncé’s BeyGood foundation has been actively participating in the rodeo circuit, with recent stops in Atlanta and Los Angeles. During these events, the charity has awarded thousands in grants and programming, reinforcing its commitment to supporting Black equestrians.
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In a recent Instagram post, Beyoncé reflected on the creation of her album “Cowboy Carter,” which has been a five-year project. She shared insights into her personal journey and the challenges she faced, including her 2016 CMA Awards performance. Beyoncé’s post highlighted how her experience of feeling unwelcome in the country music genre inspired her to delve deeper into the history of country music and blend genres creatively.
“This album has been over five years in the making,” Beyoncé wrote. “It was born out of an experience where I did not feel welcomed, which led me to study the rich history of Country music.” She continued, “The criticisms I faced forced me to overcome limitations and blend genres to create this body of work.”
The impact of Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” extends beyond music, showcasing her dedication to supporting and uplifting Black cowboys and cowgirls. Through her BeyGood foundation and its Black equestrian program, Beyoncé continues to make a significant difference in the lives of those who have dedicated their lives to preserving and celebrating Black equestrian culture.
