Many people find it much easier to mention to friends and family that they're involved with the Diamond State Rodeo Association than the Arkansas Gay Rodeo Association. As long as I'm not climbing on the back of some wild bull, she doesn't mind who I'm dating. Not really, though most people are. Most of the competitors, officials and volunteers are gay, though there is certainly no rule that one has to be. It was not until well into my first rodeo that I really understood this.
Straights are a minority in the crowd, though they are welcome to attend.
Don't worry, sweetie, we'll be gentle. The day wears on, and the rodeo's competition draws to an end. The ropers have roped, the horses raced, the bulls bucked. Cocktails, of course, and then proceed to the party. These parties draw hundreds of people together, as competitors meet spectators and discover what Little Rock has to offer.