Harris County judge alleges rough treatment at rodeo; officials mention $9,000 in giveaways

Texas Judge Experiences Incident at Rodeo Concert

A Texas judge expressed concern over potential racism or sexism this week while attending a concert at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. She claimed that staff denied her access to the VIP section, roughly escorted her out of the venue, despite being awarded approximately $9,000 in prizes.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo attended the concert featuring Megan Moloney with a group that included another elected official, and the parents of a recently deceased U.S. Air Force sergeant. However, the rodeo officials noted that their group didn’t pay the required $425 per person for wristbands, leading to their exclusion from the premium viewing area, which was sold out.

Hidalgo commented that she had previously accessed this area without a wristband, believing it to be reserved for the friends and leaders of the rodeo. She felt confused and frustrated when staff forcibly removed her after she inquired about gaining entry.

In a pointed letter to rodeo officials, Hidalgo acknowledged the need for safety protocols but expressed dismay at the treatment she received, insisting she wasn’t trying to disrupt the event. “I wasn’t even interested in the concert,” she mentioned, stating her main goal was to support those in the community.

The rodeo officials claimed that she was asked several times to return to her prior location before being removed from the venue. They stated, however, that no physical harm came to her during this incident and stressed compliance with access policies.

Judge Hidalgo had received complimentary tickets for several upcoming concerts but emphasized her disapproval of how she was treated. In her correspondence, she asserted that she has always maintained integrity in her role and raised questions about whether her treatment might have been different if she were a male counterpart.

She further highlighted her belief that the current atmosphere allows some individuals, particularly white men, to act violently towards others, suggesting a bias based on identity. “I will never travel without a passport again,” she remarked, indicating a sense of vulnerability.

The Houston Police Officers Union responded with a satirical post about the incident, while Hidalgo shared videos from the concert venue on social media, illustrating her perspective on the situation.

Ultimately, Hidalgo insisted that this issue transcends mere wristbands or tickets—it’s about the broader treatment people receive in society. “If I’m being treated this way, what about others?” she questioned, recognizing her unique position as an official linked to the venue.