Celebrating the much-forgotten history of Black Western heritage in the U.S.A., The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo has reached millions across America over its four decades. Honoring legendary Black cowboy Bill Pickett’s legacy as originator of the bulldogging stunt, Lu Vason founded his all-Black rodeo in 1984, having encountered the thrill of the rodeo – and a glaring lack of diversity at odds with African-American contributions to the sport.

Unpicking preconceptions from inside the corral, The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo travels state-to-state annually, offering an education on the cultural significance of Black cowboys and cowgirls, and a stage for the skills and stamina of those continuing the Black Western tradition.

“The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo travels across the US from February to September and is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Their vision is to educate people about the largely forgotten history of Black cowboys and cowgirls in America.”

Traveling to Oakland, California, London-based directors Jack Flynn and Nick David connect with the cowboys and cowgirls of The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo for short documentary Rodeo. Shot at the iconic Rowell Ranch, a site with a 100-year history as a rodeo ground, the film captures competitors’ experiences of rodeo life, and the culture and community that accompany the event, remolding a symbol of white America to reflect the unsung contributions that have shaped it.