HBCU bands, steppers, rappers celebrate Black Heritage Day at Houston rodeo – KHOU.com

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HOUSTON — Thousands gathered at NRG Stadium for Black Heritage Day at Rodeo Houston on Friday, honoring the contributions of African Americans to Western culture. The event highlighted the culture, history, and legacy of Black cowboys with festivities continuing throughout the day.
The energy was nonstop at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, celebrating the culture, history and legacy of Black Americans. Attendees experienced a day filled with dancing and celebration.
Before the concert, the rodeo recognized former Houston mayor and U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner and U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee. Turner died suddenly Wednesday morning due to ongoing health issues. Jackson Lee died in July after battling cancer. Both were respected Black Houston public figures.
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For many participants, Black Heritage Day represents more than just a single day of recognition. The tradition started in the 1930s.
“It was just an idea that we needed to make sure that we tapped into the African-American culture,” said Wendy Lewis Armstrong, Vice President of HLSR. Lewis Armstrong’s great uncle was the founder of the Black Heritage Committee in 1933.
“To make sure that the rodeo understood the history and the legacy and the the amazing things that the African-American community has done and continues to do in Western culture,” she said. “So I think it’s twofold, one, to educate the rodeo folks who want to educate the community.”
The day also included choirs, steppers, cheerleaders, bands, and schools to make it feel like a big party. The marching bands from historically Black colleges Prairie View A&M University and Texas Southern University played together for the first time in their schools’ history.
Cardell Bey traveled from Ohio just for this party.
“Black people got a big influence on country music, cowboys and everything, and it’s good to see yourself represented in that way,” Bey said.
Rodeo officials anticipate large crowds as the rodeo season continues. Those who missed Friday’s celebration still have opportunities to attend, with the first weekend of rodeo season beginning tomorrow. According to officials, attendance is expected to increase significantly next week when schools go into spring break.
RodeoHouston continues to serve as a platform for showcasing diverse cultural contributions to Western heritage while providing entertainment for visitors throughout its run.
Houston rapper Bun B was set to perform at the rodeo Friday night. Ludacris, Don Toliver, Yolanda Adams, Keith Sweat, Coco Jones and Jagged Edge joined the party, as well as surprise guest T.I.

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