On March 3, 2023, the Roc-A-Natural Foundation hosted its Third Annual Freedom Ball Fundraiser at LiGreci’s Staaten in West Brighton, Staten Island. This event celebrated the significant contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls in American Western history, showcasing their vital role in shaping frontier life long before Hollywood popularized their stories.
A Night of Tribute and Education
The evening unfolded with over 120 guests embracing a vibrant Western theme, donning outfits adorned with denim, plaid, and cowboy accessories. Attendees enjoyed a four-course dinner while the local dance troupe, Western Pulse Ensemble, presented a dynamic performance filled with music and movement that highlighted the often-overlooked narratives of Black Western heritage.
Dorcas Meyers, the creative director of Roc-A-Natural and a performer in the ensemble, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “We are ‘edu-taining’ the community through dance and fashion, highlighting the history of Black cowboys and cowgirls.” This approach aims to both educate and entertain, ensuring that the contributions of these pioneers are not forgotten.
Performers included notable figures such as Dakota McKoy as Dazzling Dixie and Dierdra Dilbert as Double Barrel D, among others. The event also featured sweet potato pie treats donated by Dorothy Nelson, owner of Momma D’s Catering, adding a local flavor to the celebration.
A Transformative Experience
The venue was transformed into an Old West saloon scene, with a large backdrop depicting a Western town. Wooden storefronts, a “Freedom Saloon,” and hay bales added to the immersive experience. Guests were encouraged to wear cowboy hats and bandanas, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
Organizers aimed to honor the legacy of Black cowboys while offering an educational experience. Imagery of rustic wagons and playful signs like “watering hole” or “outhouse” contributed to the frontier feel. Attendees showcased a range of outfits from denim dresses to custom pieces, all reflecting the event’s theme.
The performance, which debuted in 2025, blended storytelling with entertainment, incorporating elements of country-western dance, hip-hop, and Latin styles. This year’s choreography was crafted by Naadira Brown, who also serves as a wellness coach. The routines integrated various dance traditions, merging European folk influences with African American rhythms.
Music for the performance was produced by Jerraine Williams, known as Agent Blurr of Blurred Noize Studio, combining genres such as country, bluegrass, and hip-hop. The Freedom Ball also featured music from DJ Thrilla, who kept guests engaged on the dance floor with line-dancing instructions throughout the evening.
This celebration of Black Western heritage was not just a performance; it also served as a platform for community engagement. A 50/50 raffle and various gift baskets, which included items like restaurant gift certificates and high-end skincare products, supported the upcoming 2026 Juneteenth Freedom Parade and Festival.
The Roc-A-Natural Cultural Foundation Inc. is dedicated to promoting arts, culture, and community involvement. It seeks to trace the historical significance of Black cowboys and cowgirls, who made up an estimated one in four cowboys during the 19th century, many of whom were formerly enslaved individuals who found work in the cattle industry after emancipation in 1865.
Figures like Nat Love and Bill Pickett stood out during this era, challenging the predominantly white image of the cowboy that later became entrenched in popular culture. The Freedom Ball and related events aim to ensure that the stories and contributions of these pioneers continue to be acknowledged and celebrated.
For additional information about Roc-A-Natural and their initiatives, visit www.rocanatural.com.
