Frank Penny Edwards saw the need to create a family-oriented event that educated people about African American cowboys and their history. Frank founded the Jackson Black Rodeo in 2002 with Jarriett Edwards as his partner. They began by researching and visiting other African American rodeos such as Cowboys of Color in Dallas. Frank and Jarriett also participated in many rodeo competitions, before they settled on the Jackson Black Rodeo. Jarriett carried on the legacy of his father, Frank Jarriett, who died in April. Jarriett stated that he wanted to keep the integrity of his father’s commitment to providing entertainment for a family-oriented event. Jarriett said that he also wanted to maintain the relationships with the supporters who made the event what they are today. Once omitted from popular portrayals of the Wild West’s Wild West, the historical role of African American cowboys and farmers in rural life has been rediscovered in recent years. Billboard’s removal of Lil Nas X’s song “Old Town Road” from their country charts sparked a backlash that ultimately helped to make the country rap song about horses and riding, cowboy boots, triple platinum. Rory Doyle, a photographer from Mississippi, has received international praise for his “Delta Hill Riders,” project that features portraits of black Mississippi cowboys and girls. The Mississippi Coliseum was packed with over 500 cowboys, cowgirls, and other participants in the 17th Annual Jackson Black Rodeo. As cowboys roped steers and calves, barrel-raced and saddle rode bucking horses, fans cheered. To be part of the history, competitors came from all over Mississippi, Texas and Louisiana. The event was a success. Audience members were filled with excitement and gained a new knowledge about black history. The 18th Annual Black Rodeo will continue this tradition on July 11, 2020. Eric J. Shelton/Mississippi Today, Report For America Eric J. Shelton/Mississippi Today, Report For America PHOTO GALLERY