Michigan Heritage Rodeo announces StableCommunities Foundation as Triple Crown Presenting Sponsor for inaugural event

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LANSING, Mich.– The Michigan Heritage Rodeo announced that StableCommunities
Foundation, powered by LAFCU, will serve as the Triple Crown Presenting Sponsor for the inaugural Michigan Heritage Rodeo – A Salute to Cowgirls and Cowboys of Color – scheduled for Sept. 19–20, 2025, at the Farm Bureau Pavilion at Michigan State University in East Lansing.

“Having StableCommunities Foundation as our Triple Crown Presenting Sponsor elevates our inaugural rodeo in a powerful way,” said Myles Johnson, spokesperson for the Michigan Heritage Rodeo. “Their support underscores the importance of celebrating history, culture and opportunity while helping us create a one-of-a-kind experience for families across Michigan.”

The Michigan Heritage Rodeo will showcase the history and traditions of Black cowboys and cowgirls while offering a family-friendly event that combines professional rodeo competition, live entertainment and cultural education. More than 80 contestants from across the country are expected to compete.

“We chose to sponsor this event because it shines a light on the vital but often overlooked role of Black cowboys and cowgirls in America’s history,” said Kelli Ellsworth Etchison, CEO of StableCommunities Foundation. “Cowboys trace back to the late 1800s, when enslaved workers were charged with overseeing livestock. Their contributions remain an important part of our culture. Sharing these stories ensures future generations not only understand this history, but also see themselves reflected in the equestrian and agricultural opportunities of the future.”

Proceeds from the event will support programs that provide historically underrepresented youth with equestrian education, horsemanship training, exposure to equine careers and leadership development opportunities.

Performances will feature local talent: Lansing School District board member and internationally acclaimed gospel vocalist DeVonte Heard and Michigan State University’s Derrick Fox, as well as world renown and award-winning gospel artist Alfred Singleton III and the Best Academy of Dance, founded by Shameka Best.

Event details:
Presenting Sponsor: StableCommunities Foundation
What: Michigan Heritage Rodeo – A Salute to Cowgirls and Cowboys of Color
When: Sept. 19–20, 2025 | 7–9 p.m.
Where: MSU Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education, East Lansing, Michigan
Tickets & information: MichiganHeritageRodeo.com

About Michigan Heritage Rodeo:

The Michigan Heritage Rodeo is a cultural celebration that combines professional rodeo competition with live performances and educational programming. The event honors the traditions of cowboys and cowgirls of color while inspiring youth and families to explore opportunities in equine and agricultural fields. 

Contact: 

Myles Johnson
info@michiganheritagerodeo.com
+1 866-647-6336