Editor's note: In a previous version of this story, Amelia Lloyd was incorrectly identified in a picture. The error has been corrected.
LEXINGTON, Ky. — Recent college graduates Deja Robinson and her friends are definitely enjoying the 2022 Breeders’ Cup, one of the world’s biggest horse racing events. Their goal isn’t just to have fun, though. They also hope to increase diversity in horse racing and see more people of color represented in the sport.
“A deep-rooted legacy in the industry that a lot of us don’t even know about. The majority of the first derby jockeys were African Americans,” Robinson said. She currently works in equine services and with community groups like the Ed Brown Society. In 2022, Robinson was an Ed Brown Society scholar. Providing experience, exposure and other networking opportunities, the organization supports young people of color in Kentucky’s horse industry.
“I came to Kentucky to pursue my passion for horses," she said. "I started riding at the age of 12. But never worked with thoroughbreds.”
While recognizing jobs like grooms as essential positions, Robinson says fewer people of color serve in these roles. A recent graduate from the University of Kentucky, majoring in Equine Science, management and animal science, she hopes her passion will encourage others to pursue important jobs in the industry.
“Also in owners and breeders positions because essentially owners and breeders are what fuels the industry. You have to have people there to invest time and money to take care of those horses,” she said.
Robinson stressed that representation is important and that she is excited to see what the future holds for people of color in horse racing.
According to the data collector Zippia, less than 4% of the equine industry comprises African Americans. Native American and Asian American representation is even less, at 1% and 0.6% respectively.