ASHA Honors Juneteenth
Today we honor the incredible contributions and accomplishments of horseman Tom Bass, depicted on one of his legendary horses Belle Beach, as we recognize and celebrate Juneteenth and the end of slavery in the United States. His unique talent, kindness, and ability with the American Saddlebred made him one of the leading innovators of equestrian sport in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in a world where he was free but not equally included or recognized during his lifetime.
The American Saddlebred Horse Association stands firmly against racism and discrimination of any kind and extends our support to the black community and people of color. As we spend today learning, reflecting and conversing, we are committed to work with our affiliates, members and partners to foster a more inclusive environment for all participants in the Saddlebred community. We can and will do better.
Today’s black trainers, horsemen and horsewomen of American Saddlebreds are located across the country and we will be featuring them in the coming months. Today we shine the spotlight on our past, however, we are excited to share this next generation’s stories.
Learn more about the story of Tom Bass here: https://www.komu.com/mobile/story.cfm?id=92934-black-horse-whisperer-remembered-for-revolutionary-equine-equipment
To learn more about the contributions and history of some of the most influential black horseman in the history of the American Saddlebred watch the American Saddlebred Museum’s “Out of the Shadows: Bringing to Light Black Horsemen in Saddlebred History.” at this link: https://youtu.be/fXH6ByafBf8
