Ja'Dayia Kursh - The First Black Rodeo Queen
Ja'Dayia Kursh, born in 1999 in Fort Smith, Arkansas, developed a passion for horses at the age of six, following a therapeutic introduction to equestrianism after a traumatic experience. By 13, she was actively participating in rodeo events, initially with the "Arkansas Seven," an all-Black riding group, and later as the second Black female member of the "Old Fort Days Dandies" drill team. Her involvement in high school football further instilled discipline and resilience, qualities that would serve her well in her future endeavors.
In 2017, on her 17th birthday, Kursh was crowned Miss Rodeo Coal Hill of Arkansas, making history as the state's first Black rodeo queen. This milestone, though not widely recognized until a 2019 interview with Essence Magazine, marked the beginning of her mission to promote diversity within the Western and rodeo communities. She has since become a prominent advocate for inclusivity, challenging traditional norms and encouraging broader representation.
Recognizing the lack of diversity in rodeo pageants, Kursh founded the Miss Rodeo Fort Smith Pageant. This event, held at Hero's Arena in Natural Dam, Arkansas, was notable for its inclusivity, featuring participants from various backgrounds. Kursh secured sponsorships to ensure that financial constraints would not hinder participation, reflecting her commitment to making the sport accessible to all.
Beyond pageantry, Kursh established the nonprofit organization Ag For Kids, aiming to educate children about agriculture, animals, and food sources. Her efforts have been recognized in various media outlets, including a feature in the "Good Roots" segment on Arkansas PBS, which highlights rural culture and agricultural issues in the state.
Kursh's advocacy extends to partnerships with major brands. After highlighting the lack of representation in Western fashion, she collaborated with companies like Wrangler and Boot Barn to promote inclusivity. Her influence has been instrumental in encouraging these brands to feature more diverse representations in their marketing and product lines.
Throughout her journey, Kursh has faced challenges, including instances of racism and the pressures of being a trailblazer in a traditionally homogeneous industry. Nevertheless, she remains steadfast in her mission to inspire and empower the next generation of equestrians, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and resilience. Her story serves as a testament to the impact of perseverance and the pursuit of inclusivity within the Western lifestyle.
For a more in-depth look at Ja'Dayia Kursh's journey, you can watch this feature:
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