Riding With Pride, Competing With Heart.

Who We Are

Established in 1984, the New Mexico Gay Rodeo Association (NMGRA) is a nonprofit organization that aims to cultivate the Western lifestyle within the LGBTQ+ community. With a solid commitment to community support, NMGRA has a rich fundraising history for various charitable causes across New Mexico.

An annual highlight for NMGRA is the Zia Regional Rodeo, a prominent fundraiser and the state’s second-largest LGBTQ+ gathering. Over the years, proceeds from the rodeo have benefited organizations such as New Mexico AIDS Services, the New Mexico Breast Cancer Coalition, the New Mexico Domestic Violence Hotline, and the People Of Color AIDS Foundation.

As a proud member of the International Gay Rodeo Association (IGRA), NMGRA joins a network of associations across the United States and Canada. These member associations host a series of rodeo events annually, culminating in the prestigious IGRA Finals Rodeo.

NMGRA has been honored to host the World Gay Rodeo Finals in 1996, 2000, 2009, and 2017

Beyond regular membership meetings and social gatherings, NMGRA actively engages in bi-monthly fundraising events at community venues. Additionally, the association participates in New Mexico Pride Events and is a proactive member of the Coalition for Equality in New Mexico, advocating for LGBTQ+ issues.

Mission
Fostering the western lifestyle within the gay community.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

What is diversity, equity, and inclusion?
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are three closely linked values held by our many organizations that work to support different groups of individuals, including people of different races, ethnicities, religions, abilities, genders, and sexual orientations.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement for the International Gay Rodeo Association, (IGRA) New Mexico Gay Rodeo Association (NMGRA), and other Member Associations throughout the United States and Canada.

At the New Mexico Gay Rodeo Association along with International Gay Rodeo Association together we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where individuals of all backgrounds can thrive. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) reflects our belief that everyone—regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, ethnicity, religion, ability, or socioeconomic status—deserves to feel valued, respected, and empowered within our community. We strive to ensure that the transformative power of our rodeo, royalty, and educational programs is accessible to everyone. NMGRA and IGRA celebrates the diversity of its members and participants, recognizing that true excellence is achieved when all voices are heard and valued. By creating safe and affirming spaces, we empower LGBTQ+ athletes, officials, royalty, volunteers, and fans to pursue their passions without fear of discrimination or exclusion.

Our DEI principles are at the heart of everything we do:

Diversity: We embrace the unique perspectives and talents that individuals from
all walks of life bring to our organization, enriching the rodeo community and
strengthening our collective experience.
Equity: We work to ensure that everyone has the resources and opportunities
necessary to thrive, addressing systemic barriers that have historically excluded
marginalized groups.
Inclusion: We cultivate a culture of belonging where every individual feels seen,
supported, and encouraged to participate fully in our programs and events.

Through our ongoing programs and events, we challenge biases, dismantle barriers, and advocate for equity in the world of LGBTQ+ sports. By investing in education, open dialogue, and meaningful actions, we aim to build a community that reflects the full spectrum of human identity and ensures that all individuals feel empowered to grow, connect, and excel.

At NMGRA, diversity strengthens us, equity guides us, and inclusion unites us. Together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future for LGBTQ+ athletes, royalty, fans, and allies in the sport of rodeo. table and inclusive workplace where every