Jackson, MS Black Rodeo is July 16

The 19th annual Jackson, Mississippi Black Rodeo will be held at the Mississippi Coliseum July 16, 2022 at 7:30 pm.

Dignitaries representing the Hinds County Legislative Delegation, both city and county officials, and the promoter with the Real Cowboy Association all gathered at the Mississippi Coliseum to make the announcement that the event will not be canceled.

Yolanda Clay-Moore, Director of Communications at Visit Jackson, opened the press conference and offered condolences and a moment of silence for the families who lost loved ones and were traumatized by the tragedy in Uvalde, TX.

The Mississippi Black Rodeo has been a staple in the community to showcase talented Black cowboys and cowgirls from around the country, but announced last week that it was canceled due to restrictions that would not allow the event to be what it has been in the past.

That news alarmed Senator John Horhn, prompting a meeting with state, city and county officials to discuss the details of the challenges the promoter faced. The challenges were identified and the entities represented offered solutions that were acceptable to the promoter.

“My father’s dying wish was to continue the event in Jackson, Mississippi,” said Jarriet Edwards, owner and promoter with the Real Cowboy Association. His father, Frank Penny Edwards, was the founder of this event. Edwards thanked each entity that collectively made this event possible. “It really means a lot to me for the City With Soul to come together to honor my father’s wish and his legacy.”

“This event historically offered a $1.6 million economic impact,” said Dr. Rickey Thigpen, President & CEO of Visit Jackson. “It broke my heart when I heard it was canceled, not just because of the economic vitality. But the city values this event and we work hard to forge these types of relationships for positive events in our Jackson inventory.”

“Jackson has not given up on its public events,” said Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba. “Ninety plus percent of our big events are done safely and we’ll continue to do them safely.” Lumumba continues, “We know that our greatest resource are our beautiful people that are welcoming and hospitable, and people that enjoy things that take place in Jackson. So, we will continue to fulfill the desires of both our visitors and our residents."

Rodeo attendees must note that only clear bags will be allowed when entering the Mississippi Coliseum building and a metal detector will be utilized.

"We look forward to working with you all collectively to provide security and a safe environment for this event," said Hinds County Sheriff Tyree Jones. The Hinds County Sheriff's Department, the Jackson Police Department and Capitol Police will be coordinating efforts to secure the event.

Edwards also noted the following:

• Campers may arrive Friday and may stay until Sunday.
  
• Tailgating will be allowed on Saturday only. Attendees are to come inside the Coliseum for the main event and be prepared to leave following that event.

"We amplify our strength when multiple agencies work together to bring vents to Jackson and maintain the safety of the people," said Capitol Police Chief Bo Luckey. "One goal we have at Capitol Police Is to ensure safety to the resident and visitors of the Capitol Improvement District. We are here to help and are committed to protect our citizens."

These measures are being taken to ensure the safety of all attendees. Additionally, the success of this event may lend itself for expansion of the weekend in years to come. If successful, the event may look at adding a parade or trail ride in the future.

Tickets are available now at Ticketmaster and the MS Coliseum Box Office.

The Real Cowboy Association (RCA) rodeo is recognized as an educational, cultural, and historical icon. It is dedicated to community involvement through diversified family entertainment. RCA rodeos showcase the role of the African American cowboys' and cowgirls' Western Heritage. RCA rodeos are filled with fun and excitement for the entire family.