Oakland Black Cowboy Association Honoring People of Color in the Old West and Today
Over Thirty Years Serving the Oakland Community • Our goal is to enlighten children and adults with the contributions of people of color in the settling of the West. • This vision continues today with its annual parade and festival.
About the Oakland Black Cowboy Association • The Black Cowboy Association became the Oakland Black Cowboy Association (OBCA)in 2004, adding Oakland to their name to show pride in the support given to the Parade by the City of Oakland and its citizens. • OBCA is a not-for-profit, volunteer run organization.
Why have a Black Cowboy Parade? • The Oakland Black Cowboy Parade is intended to educate the public about the role Black Cowboys played in building and settling the Old West. • It honors the role of African Americans and other people of color in the Old West and shares little known histories of black and brown cowboy and cowgirls.
The Parade’s Origins • The parade was originally sponsored by the Oakland Museum’s Cultural and Ethnic Affairs Guild in 1975. • In 1976, the parade was sponsored by the Oakland Traders, a group of local businessmen. • Since 1977, the parade has been sponsored by the community group Blacks Unified to Motivate Progress(B.U.M.P.) ,and by the Black Cowboy Association. The Black Cowboy Association has sponsored it thereafter.
Oakland Black Cowboy Parade’s Beginnings • The Oakland Black Cowboy Parade began in 1975. • Our first Grand Marshall was Lonnie Scoggins, expert roper, horseman and long time member of the Black Cowboy Association. He was introduced as “Oakland’s best know black cowboy”.
Oakland Black Cowboy Parade & Festival • Annual one of a kind parade and festival which features nationwide cowboys, trick riders and re-enactors. • The Oakland Black Cowboy Parade is usually held on the first Saturday in October. • The community participates by showcasing schools, organizations, government and local businesses.
Where to View • It begins at DeFremery Park in West Oakland at 10 am and returns there for a festival following the parade. • The judging stand is set up downtown, in front of Frank Ogawa Plaza on 14th street in Oakland just west of Broadway.
Post Parade Festival • Following the parade, There is a festival at DeFremery Park in West Oakland. • It hosts food vendors, entertainment, and children’s activities including pony rides. • Parade awards are given out during the festival. • The festival usually lasts until about 4pm.
Ongoing Events • The Oakland Black Cowboy Association hosts dances, conducts speaking engagements and community events promoting the contributions of people of color to the Old West. • OBCA makes presentations to schools when available.
To Learn More Visit our website at www.blackcowboyassociation.org • Contact our president Wilbert McAlister wilbert@blackcowboyassociation.org
Thank you for your support!