Nationwide — Beyoncé Knowles-Carter is making a significant impact by shining a spotlight on Black cowboys and equestrian culture, not just through her music but also through her philanthropic efforts. Her foundation, BeyGOOD, has taken a deep interest in supporting the rich, yet often overlooked, history of Black cowboys, cowgirls, farmers, and ranchers. This history is vital to understanding the full narrative of the American West, yet it has been largely ignored in mainstream media and history books. By focusing on these communities, Beyoncé is helping to preserve and celebrate a crucial part of Black heritage that has shaped the American landscape.

In an effort to uplift and sustain these traditions, BeyGOOD has been partnering with the annual Bill Pickett Rodeo, a historic event that has been the heartbeat of Black cowboy culture for four decades. The Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo, recognized as the longest-running Black rodeo in the United States, is a crucial gathering for Black cowboys and cowgirls to showcase their skills and preserve their legacy. Through its Equestrian program, BeyGOOD has committed $500,000 in grants to support these communities, demonstrating a strong commitment to ensuring that this important cultural heritage is not lost to history. 

According to WBLS, the BeyGOOD Foundation has already made a tangible impact by participating in the Los Angeles and Atlanta stops of the Bill Pickett Rodeo. At these events, the foundation awarded $25,000 in grants to various organizations that are deeply rooted in the Black equestrian community. Among the recipients were Urban Saddles, Love This Equine and Horse Rescue, The Black Cultural Enlightenment Society/Black Cowboy Festival, the South Carolina Black Farmers Coalition, and SOOFA Ranch. Each of these organizations plays a vital role in promoting and sustaining Black equestrian and agricultural traditions.

Founded by Beyoncé in 2013, BeyGOOD started as an initiative to support global causes and has now evolved into a 501(c)(3) public charity, known as the BeyGOOD Foundation. Over the past decade, BeyGOOD has engaged in numerous humanitarian efforts, from providing scholarships to addressing the water crisis in Burundi, and aiding families affected by Hurricane Harvey in Houston. Beyoncé’s vision for the foundation is to continue building partnerships through innovative programs that have a lasting impact on communities around the world.

One of the youngest beneficiaries of the BeyGOOD Equestrian Grants is nine-year-old Kendall Rae Johnson, the youngest farmer in Georgia and the owner of Green Heart. Her success story is a testament to the importance of nurturing the next generation of Black farmers and equestrians. The support provided by the BeyGOOD Foundation is crucial in helping young entrepreneurs like Kendall Rae continue their work and inspire future generations.

The significance of this initiative cannot be overstated. By supporting these grants, the BeyGOOD Foundation is not just providing financial assistance; it is affirming the value of Black agricultural and equestrian traditions in the broader American story. These efforts ensure that the legacies of Black cowboys, farmers, and ranchers are recognized and celebrated, rather than forgotten. To learn more about the recipients and the work of the BeyGOOD Foundation, visit

Nationwide — Tito Jackson, a founding member of the iconic Jackson 5 and brother to music legend Michael Jackson, passed away at the age of 70 on Sunday, as revealed by a former manager. Tito, the third oldest of the Jackson siblings, played a pivotal role in the success of the Jackson 5, a group that helped shape the landscape of Motown and R&B. Alongside his brothers Jermaine, Marlon, Jackie, and Michael, Tito contributed to the group’s worldwide success, making them one of the most famous musical acts of all time. Longtime family friend and former manager Steve Manning shared with reporters that Tito died on September 15, possibly from a heart attack while driving from New Mexico to Oklahoma. The official cause of death has not yet been confirmed.

Tito’s role in the Jackson 5 was crucial to the group’s early success. As a talented guitarist, Tito’s rhythm and musical foundation helped define the group’s sound, complementing Michael’s lead vocals and Jermaine’s bass. While Michael became the breakout star, Tito’s steady presence and musicianship were key factors in creating the group’s cohesive sound that led to massive hits like “I Want You Back,” “ABC,” and “I’ll Be There.” His contributions were often understated, but his skill as a performer helped drive the group’s commercial and artistic achievements during their rise to fame.

Even after the passing of his younger brother Michael in 2009, Tito remained deeply connected to his legacy. Tito often reflected on the profound impact Michael’s death had on him, revealing in a recent interview that he continued to feel Michael’s presence whenever he performed. Tito found solace in seeing Michael’s smile in the faces of his children, TJ, Taj, and Taryll Jackson. He was also a vocal advocate for preserving Michael’s legacy, stating that the world had missed out on much of Michael’s goodness, as he was not only a gifted artist but also a loving person dedicated to giving back.

In August, Tito returned to the UK, just miles from the O2 Arena where Michael was set to perform his highly anticipated This Is It residency before his untimely death. Reflecting on the world’s treatment of Michael, Tito shared his frustrations, telling  “The world was not kind to Michael at all. His death was such a major tragedy, and I believe the world missed out on a lot of good from him.” He went on to describe Michael as more than just a musician, praising his brother’s generosity and compassionate spirit.

Tito and his siblings have faced many challenges in the years following Michael’s passing, including family tensions and legal battles involving their mother, Katherine Jackson, and the executors of Michael’s estate. Despite the turmoil, Tito remained steadfast, choosing to rise above the drama. “I don’t have time to put it in my head,” he said of the family disputes. “We know ourselves and we know each other.”

Tito continued to perform with The Jacksons, keeping the family’s musical legacy alive. He maintained a close relationship with Michael’s children—Prince, Paris, and Bigi “Blanket” Jackson—visiting them whenever he traveled to Los Angeles from his home in Oklahoma. Tito’s passing marks the loss of yet another key figure in the storied Jackson family, but his contributions to music, and his devotion to his family, will be remembered for years to come.