Cripple Creek Gold Rush Rodeo

I just want to say thank you to the Cripple Creek Gold Rush Rodeo team for something that meant more than they probably know. My family and I attended the event, and as one of the only brown families there, I’ll admit—I felt anxious at first. With everything going on in the country right now, being in a space so full of American pride and tradition stirred up some real emotions for me. During the flag run and national anthem, I felt uncomfortable and out of place. It’s hard to explain unless you’ve lived it. But then the announcer did something that stopped me in my tracks. He acknowledged people from other countries. He said we were welcome. That he was sorry for what’s happening right now—and that this country is not about hate or exclusion. I literally started crying. It was like he knew exactly what I needed to hear in that moment. My husband even looked over confused, asking “What did I miss?”—because to me, it wasn’t just words. It was reassurance, it was acknowledgment, and it was powerful. That one gesture made me feel seen, safe, and respected. It reminded me that there are still people who care, and that there’s space for all of us—even in places where we don’t always feel like we belong. I will 100% keep supporting this rodeo because of that moment. It meant everything. Thank you for creating an environment that felt welcoming and inclusive during a time when so many of us are hurting and unsure. That kind of integrity and humanity deserves recognition.