Josh Muse is vice chairman of the Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation. Raymond J. Welch is chairman of the Barona Band of Mission Indians. John Christman is chairman of the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians.
Rodeos have long been a vital platform for Native Americans and Indigenous people to celebrate their culture, heritage, and connection with animals. That’s why the leadership of our tribes has united to oppose a proposed ban on rodeos in San Diego.
As members of the San Diego Rodeo Alliance, we have joined forces with thousands of supporters to preserve this important tradition. Our allies now include the Pechanga Band of Indians and Morongo Band of Mission Indians, standing in solidarity to protect the San Diego rodeo.
The history of rodeo predates the existence of San Diego, rooted in practices established on Indigenous lands. It represents a meaningful expression of skills and traditions passed down by our ancestors.
Rodeo holds a special place in our hearts, showcasing the heritage of various communities, including Mexican (Charreadas), Black, Western, and LGBTQ+. Despite the misrepresentation of our stories in mainstream media, the tide is slowly changing with more recognition of the original cowboys.
The proposed ban on rodeos in San Diego has sparked a call for a more informed approach. We urge stakeholders to look to Los Angeles as an example, where a similar proposal failed due to lack of engagement with impacted communities.
It is impossible to separate rodeo by tradition, as each event stems from diverse cultural roots. Rodeo is not just entertainment but a heritage showcase that supports Indigenous families and organizations in our communities.
As a traveling practice, rodeo allows Indigenous participants to share their heritage on a broader stage. The San Diego rodeo attracts thousands of attendees each year, fostering a collective respect for tradition, community, and animal welfare.
Animal welfare is a top priority for us, and we go to great lengths to ensure the safety and well-being of our animals during the rodeo. False claims of mistreatment only serve to undermine our efforts, as confirmed by the San Diego Humane Society’s final report.
We call upon San Diego City leaders to engage in an educational dialogue before making any decisions regarding the future of rodeos in the city. We believe that a more inclusive and informed approach will lead to a fair resolution that respects our cultural traditions.
Together, let’s work towards a common-sense solution that allows rodeos to continue in San Diego, preserving an important part of our history and cultural heritage.
