Knuck if you Buck: All-Inclusive Show-Me State Rodeo dusts up KC

Kansas City, dwelling in an urban bustle and infinite skyscrapers, witnessed an infusion of Western culture as the All-Inclusive Show-Me State Rodeo rolled in mid-May. The sounds of boots clicking, ropes twirling, and equine creatures contributed to a thrilling sensory experience as they marched across Hale Arena’s chalky brown terrain.

A Sight for All Senses

In an energetic description of the rodeo experience, the Missouri Gay Rodeo Association (MGRA) Rodeo Director, Sean Higgins, detailed the multi-sensory immersion from the dirt-filled gusts of wind from a horse’s bow, the confusing scent of livestock, and finally, to the overpowering heat. Shawn Shaffer, MGRA Vice President, adds to his sentiment by unveiling, “It’s the sight, the sounds of cattle horns clanking, horses breathing, and the hoof beats, then the smells, all lighting up your senses.”

Reinventing The Rodeo

In mid-May 2024, MGRA introduced Kansas City to a thrilling rodeo weekend, not just with the well-known heritage, but with a progressive stride towards inclusivity. This event added a much-needed spunk to the arena by representing LGBTQ+ as well as physically disabled individuals.

A Journey to Inclusion

The genesis of this inclusive rodeo was in Reno, Nevada, in 1976, with Phil Ragsdale pioneering a safe environment for LGBTQ+ individuals and their shared passion for rodeo. Initially centered around 125 contestants, the tradition expanded, ultimately leading to the establishment of the International Gay Rodeo Association (IGRA) and Missouri’s inaugural gay rodeo a year later.

Since its inception, MGRA faced formidable challenges, especially considering its emergence during the AIDS epidemic. Ensuring rodeo spaces were safe for the LGBTQ+ community to thrive became vital, resulting in covert rodeos to protect members from potential threats.

Encompassing Equality

Fast forward to the recent years, the fight for full LGBTQ+ equality and representation still remains. IGRA and MGRA members continue to navigate this battle-filled landscape; combatting stereotypes and advocating for visibility. According to Shaffer, it’s about people realizing “we’re not that big, scary” entity, an obsolete stereotype they want to dispel.

Contributing to achieving equality, MGRA and IGRA offer a sense of home to many members who have spent considerable time in urban environments. Sarah Nickels, a saddle bronc rider from West Texas, testifies with an emotional sentiment, “I really never found my place, and I figured I wouldn’t, until I went to my first IGRA rodeo and it felt like I was home for the first time.”

MGRA embodies the spirit of inclusivity, embracing all regardless of sexual orientation, physical abilities or disabilities. An adaptive mindset fuels MGRA’s efforts, ensuring the participation of physically disabled individuals as well.

A Celebration of Inclusion and Tradition

Besides enriching the Kansas City’s socio-cultural fabric, the All-Inclusive Show-Me State Rodeo also impacts charities. The event’s proceeds benefited Wishing Well Equine Rescue and Rehabilitation and Kansas City Relay for Life. Additionally, MGRA supports AIDS Walk Kansas City and has connected with disadvantaged children at Our Spot KC, also contributing to recruiting young volunteers for the rodeo.

Conclusion

Emerging from a clandestine gathering to a widely celebrated annual event, the All-Inclusive Show-Me State Rodeo reveals the progression of the region in recognizing the LGBTQ+ community’s rightful place in society, signifying that a home on the range truly belongs to all.