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Equestrian Resources for Riders of Color

Riders from diverse backgrounds are finding ways to connect in order to share experiences and help other black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) riders navigate the industry.

Increasingly, riders from diverse backgrounds are finding ways to connect in order to share experiences and help others enjoy the horse industry. iStock/Roberto Galan

Increasingly, riders from diverse backgrounds are finding ways to connect in order to share experiences and help other black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) riders navigate the industry. 

Check out this list of online resources and hands-on programs that increase accessibility to horses.

Black Equestrian Network. This resource serves as a central location to highlight services provided and businesses owned and operated by black horsemen and horsewomen. It is modeled after “The Negro Motorist Green Book.” Popularly known as the Green Book, it was a travel guide intended to help African American motorists avoid social obstacles prevalent during the period of racial segregation.

The Chronicle of African Americans in the Horse Industry. The digital project by the International Museum of the Horse, a Kentucky-based museum, recognizes the achievements and contributions of African Americans.

Detroit Horse Power. This non-profit in Detroit, Michigan, is teaching urban youth to ride and care for horse.

Ebony Horsewomen Inc. An equine-assisted therapy and equine-assisted growth and learning group that empowers youth to lead successful lives, deters destructive behaviors, builds leaders and increases academic achievement.

Equestrians of Color Facebook Group. A private Facebook group that is a supportive environment for equestrians of color to talk about the horse world and related topics. Individuals may request to join as long as they agree to group rules and respond to a brief questionnaire.

Saddle Up and Read. Based in Wendell, North Carolina, this non-profit is designed to help improve literacy, especially among children of color who are disproportionately represented in literacy rates.

Strides for Equality Equestrians (SEE). An allyship program for the equestrian community, this group represents a first step toward addressing the lack of racial and ethnic diversity within equestrian sports.

Work to Ride. A community-based horsemanship and equine education program in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, designed to connect disadvantaged youth to horses.

Young Black Equestrians Podcast. A podcast highlighting the passion, culture and lifestyle of black horsemen and women.

Young Black Equestrians Diversity Discussion. The Facebook group for listeners of the Young Black Equestrian Podcast.

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