Controversy ahead of the California Rodeo Salinas over Charro Horse Riders

A local attorney is saying the California Rodeo Salinas is disrespecting the Latino community by not giving the Charro Horse Riders more time.

It all started over a Facebook post from Jose Velasquez.

“We’re asking for this, and if we don’t get it., we are going to flex our political muscle and our economic muscle,” Velasquez said.

The post, calling for a Latino community boycott of the rodeo.

Velasquez says he’s been asking for more time for the tradition of Charro Horse Groups, roughly 15-30 minutes, saying they deserve more than the time they currently get during the grand entry, especially considering the largely Latino audience.

“Every year they push us through. And for the horse to show the elegance and talent and the horse-rider, you need a little more space,” Velasquez said.

There has been a series of meetings between Velasquez and Rodeo President Brent Eastmen, where Velasquez says Eastman offered three minutes. Eastman, in and interview with the Californian, denies that. However, the Rodeo tells KION adding more time for the Charro Riders after the grand entry is a logistical problem.

“We are open to discussing and making changes, but there are always logistical constraints we need to comply with,” Mandy Linquist, Marketing Manager for California Rodeo Salinas said.

There are events before the grand entry, like slack and the Special Buckaroos Rodeo, making changes tough. Marketing Manager Mandy Linquist says Velasquez’ demands are not possible.

“He’s now making demands versus having discussions with us, calling to boycott when the rodeo is willing to address reasonable concerns is only going to divide our community.”

Acting as a mediator is Councilmember Tony Barrera.

“I think we can come to a consensus. As a matter of fact, I really believe we are heading in that direction. Calling for a boycott is very premature at this time.”

A boycott would mean less revenue for the rodeo, and in turn, non-profits and vendors. Velasquez says its on the rodeo to change, and a boycott is the only way.

“It forces even the hardest of the hard, that money talks.”

Barrera says the rodeo is discussing bringing in a Spanish speaking announcer and adding Mariachi. He hopes there can be a third meeting to smooth over these differences.