Our heritage

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Rodeo’s origins are firmly rooted in Hispanic, Indigenous and Black traditions, predating the formation of San Diego itself. These influences are integral to our local heritage, ranging from Mexican charreadas, which introduced roping and riding techniques, to the Black cowboys and ranchers who played pivotal roles in cattle herding and rodeo events, and the Indigenous horsemanship that has shaped today’s rodeo practices. These contributions are far too often forgotten yet vital to the story of the American West.

Commitment to animal welfare

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At the heart of our alliance is a profound commitment to the welfare, care and nurturing of our animal partners. Livestock animals are our family and fellow athletes. We love them and the trust between us is integral to the sport. Our experienced handlers employ low-stress techniques, having a deep understanding of animal behavior. Livestock under our care receive high-quality food, appropriate bedding and secure holding pens and our comprehensive ethical standards for gear, transportation and events reflect our commitment to responsible practices.

Need for inclusive policy

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Potential regulations should include feedback from the experts and constituents impacted most. The current proposal did not include feedback from a single stakeholder.

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We advocate for an inclusive approach and emphasize the importance of informed policymaking that genuinely considers animal welfare and accurately reflects our traditions. As such, we urge the City Council to engage in a dialogue that respects our cultural practices, addresses misconceptions and considers the unintended consequences of policy decisions targeted on one community, including communities of color.