Washington's First Black Rodeo Queen Inspires New Besa Gordon Film
Get ready to be inspired by the story of Washington State's first Black rodeo queen, Jessa Thomas. This Sunday at 6 pm, Fox13 will premiere a film that follows the journey of the 17-year-old cowgirl from Kittitas County. The film, produced by Besa Gordon and Stephanie Johnson Tolliver, highlights the challenges and triumphs of breaking barriers.
"This film is more than just a film about rodeo," says executive producer Besa Gordon. "It's a film about breaking barriers...it's a film about going into a room and not necessarily feeling like you belong, or people feeling that you don't belong, and stepping up to the occasion and being like, look, I'm going to show you why I deserve to be here."
The film emphasizes the importance of representation and resilience, celebrating the heritage of Black cowboys and cowgirls. As producer Stephanie Johnson Tolliver notes, "It's more about the history, heritage and legacy of black cowgirls and cowboys."
Jessa's story is a reminder that Black people have always been a part of the American West. "Seeing her in that position normalizes seeing us in positions like that," says Tolliver.
Don't miss this moving and educational film premiering on Fox 13 this Sunday. As Besa Gordon puts it, "Jessa is just amazing...she is the perfect person for us to have been able to spotlight for this journey that she's on."
Tune in to FOX13 Seattle at 6pm or for free nationwide on the FOX Local App
