The preface of the article starts with this:"Sometimes it seems as if women are are almost invisible in the history of the west, but the truth is that they were there the whole time, working cattle, going up the trail, and building ranches all across Texas. Problem is, the only word we have to describe them makes you think of buckle bunnies or Nashville queens. I aim to change that."
Wow- talk about powerful. In the effort of trying to clear up some of the misconceptions of rodeo, I found this quite intriguing, and extremely relevant to my cause and project. Originally, the word "Cowgirl" had the connotation of grit, determination, and honor. However, the article elaborates that due to haute culture and Hollywood, the name has been corrupted to a derogatory term regarding them as buckle bunnies or trolling with turquoise.
The article is flooded with stories and photos of true working rural women, day workers, cattle ranchers, rodeo cowgirls, farriers, etc.
Perhaps there are many misconceptions of what cowgirls are and where the label is going, but after reading it is easy to see that we stand for fairness, hard work and forthrightness.
A little later today I will be interviewing another Texas Cowgirl, Lauren Graham, Miss Rodeo Texas 2011 who is the goodwill ambassador and spokeswoman for the professional sport of rodeo in the Lone Star State. I look forward to hearing her take on where the direction of the cowgirl lifestyle is headed.
Long Live Cowgirls!
DF
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