The Michigan Heritage Rodeo is historic celebration of culture, courage, and community is coming to East Lansing this fall. Michigan State University will be the site of the Inaugural Michigan Heritage Rodeo – A Salute to Cowgirls & Cowboys of Color, an exciting and educational two-day event showcasing the powerful legacy and present-day impact of diverse voices in Western heritage.
This family-friendly event, happening September 19 and 20, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. each evening, is being presented by two Lansing-based nonprofit organizations: Frankie’s Corner Little Thoroughbred Crusade, whose mission is to inspire youth and foster personal growth through equine-based activities, and the Dream Warriors Project, whose mission is to develop successful youth leaders. Both organizations are dedicated to youth empowerment, education, excellence, and community enrichment.
The rodeo will be produced by Latting Rodeo Productions, a nationally respected name with over 50 years of experience producing dynamic, professional rodeo events across the country.
Featuring top rodeo contestants from coast to coast, the Michigan Heritage Rodeo will offer thrilling competitions, cultural and educational exhibits, music, and engaging activities for all ages. The event aims to honor and uplift the underrepresented histories and contributions of Black, Indigenous, Latino, and other cowboys and cowgirls of color whose stories are often left untold.
“The rodeo experience will not only educate youth about our rich western heritage but also educate them about the many possibilities for their future in the field of agriculture and equine,” said Jermo Reese, co-chair of the Michigan Heritage Rodeo and founder of Frankie’s Corner Little Thoroughbred Crusade.
The Michigan Heritage Rodeo is proud to have strong support from a diverse range of individuals and organizations reflecting a broad cross-section of the community. Its appeal spans various age groups, backgrounds, and interests, uniting people who want to learn about and share their passion for rodeo culture, agriculture, and local heritage. We are honored to have Mr. Desmond “Moneyball” Ferguson serve as the 2025 Grand Marshal!
“This is more than a rodeo—it’s a movement,” said Janet E. Howard, co-chair of Michigan Heritage Rodeo and executive director of the Dream Warriors project. “We’re celebrating history, creating opportunity, and building a future where everyone sees themselves in the history of equine pursuits in this country and the cultural heritage of the American West.”
