Mexico City Bans Bullfights Where Animals are Killed or Wounded
Legislators Vote to Move Towards "Violence-Free" Bullfighting Events
Mexico City, home to the world’s largest bullring, has voted to ban bullfights where animals are killed or wounded, as opponents and supporters staged rival protests. The initiative, promoted by the capital city’s mayor Clara Brugada, aims to move towards "violence-free" bullfighting events.
Banning Sharp Objects, Limiting Event Duration
The vote also bans the use of sharp objects such as swords, but matadors can use capes and muletas – sticks with red cloth hanging from them. The ban, which also limits bullfights to 15 minutes for each animal, was approved by 61 votes in favor and one against, the capital’s legislature announced.
President’s Support and Industry Opposition
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum last week threw her support behind the initiative, calling it a "good solution" to maintain jobs in the bullfighting industry while respecting a constitutional reform prohibiting animal abuse. However, bullfighting promoters opposed the ban, saying it threatens a deeply rooted cultural tradition.
Scuffles and Rival Demonstrations
Scuffles involving rival demonstrators broke out near the legislature before riot police intervened. Mexico City is a bastion of bullfighting, and at its heart sits the Plaza de Toros, which has the capacity for more than 40,000 people. However, the capital is also considered a progressive stronghold, and there have been years of legal battles between bullfighting supporters and animal rights activists, who welcomed the ban on wounding the animals.
Animal Welfare Concerns
Anton Aguilar, executive director of Humane World for Animals Mexico, called the ban "an important step towards eradicating the torment and killing of animals for entertainment." However, he noted that "it’s important also to acknowledge that a bull event without violence does not mean one without suffering, as bulls will still be subjected to significant and completely unnecessary stress."
Global Perspective
Several of Mexico’s 32 states have banned bullfighting, which was brought by the Spanish conquistadors centuries ago. Bullfighters point to the economic value of the industry, which generated 80,000 jobs and around $50 million in revenue in 2023, according to figures from the Mexico City legislature. Among other countries, Ecuador, Spain, France, Mexico, Peru, Portugal, and Venezuela still hold bullfighting events.
Conclusion
Mexico City’s ban on bullfights where animals are killed or wounded is a significant step towards reducing animal suffering and promoting a more humane and compassionate society. While opponents of the ban argue that it threatens a cultural tradition, proponents see it as a necessary step towards protecting animal welfare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of the ban on bullfights in Mexico City?
A: The ban aims to move towards "violence-free" bullfighting events and reduce animal suffering.
Q: What are the limits on bullfighting events under the new ban?
A: Bullfights will be limited to 15 minutes for each animal, and matadors will be allowed to use capes and muletas instead of sharp objects.
Q: What is the current state of bullfighting in Mexico?
A: Several of Mexico’s 32 states have banned bullfighting, while others still hold bullfighting events.