Gay Rodeo event celebrates history of queer cowboys 

Reclaiming the national narrative and telling a more inclusive history of the west; that’s what University of Idaho History Professor Rebecca Scofield set out to do when she first began researching the history of gay rodeo 10 years ago. Now, students have a chance to learn more about this rich history and hear from gay rodeo participant and scholar Nicholas Villanueva, on Friday Jan 20 at 6:30 p.m. at the Moscow Contemporary. 

This informational event is hosted by the Department of Theatre Arts, the Department of History and the LQBTQA Office, and attendance is free for everyone. The night will be composed primarily of a presentation by Professor Villanueva regarding his experience in gay rodeo and its history, followed by a question-and-answer session. 

Investigating lesser-known histories of the American West has been Scofield’s goal since 2013, and this event is a product of that research. Scofield has previously collaborated with Theatre Department Chair Robert Caisley to write the play “That Damn Horse” which features the stories of gay rodeo participants. Scofield and Caisley will be discussing the play briefly at Friday’s event. 

Scofield’s research examines the connections between the historical perceptions of rodeo and the national narrative of America, digging into how many important voices have been left out of history. 

“I started thinking about how the cowboy is intimately connected with how we think about who’s American, who’s a man, who belongs and examining this narrative of belonging,” Scofield said. 
 

The research behind this event dives into parts of American history that are often overlooked or forgotten and this event hopes to give students the opportunity to experience and learn from a unique perspective.  

“When we create false narratives that leave out the voices of millions of people, that’s our loss. We lose that sense of connection to other people,” Scofield said. “When you tell more inclusive stories and are honest about what the past looked like and who was there, then as a nation we would be stronger and more united.” 

Villanueva will be presenting his research and experiences as a gay rodeo participant in what Scofield hopes will be an educational and enjoyable evening. Attendees will have the opportunity to expand their perspectives on American history and learn from an inspirational queer role model who has been a path maker in the gay rodeo world. 

“I think for students, particularly students in this region, these are helpful stories to hear. No matter how you identify,” Scofield said. “Regardless of your identity this is an opportunity to be able to learn this history and learn that we all belong.” 

Grace Giger can be reached at [email protected]