Animal advocates have made significant progress in the campaign to end bullfighting in Mexico City. On March 18, the capital city voted to ban traditional bullfighting and introduced a “non-violent” alternative to take its place, according to The Guardian.
Under the new rules, matadors can only use capes — no lances, spears, or swords — to provoke the bulls to charge at them, and bulls will no longer be allowed to die in or out of the ring. Measures will also be taken to neutralize the bulls’ horns to prevent injuries; and each “fight” will not exceed 15 minutes.
“It was either this or nothing,” an animal rights activist said. “We prefer this because, without a doubt, it’s a huge step in protecting animals.”
Initially proposed as a complete ban, the legislation was modified to include this “bullfighting without violence” by the head of government in Mexico City, Clara Brugada, to support economic interests that rely on the bullfighting industry.
“The spectacle of blood cannot be justified under any concept of art and tradition,” Brugada said. “Some will argue that it is part of traditions and culture, but culture, music and art, even rights, change, evolve, transform.”
Bullfighting supporters protested against the legislation.
A 2022 ruling influenced by a human rights group temporarily halted bullfights in Mexico City. Unfortunately, the decision was appealed and Mexico’s Supreme Court overturned the ruling, allowing bullfights to resume in January of last year.
Mexico City now joins several other states in the country to have banned this outdated practice.
The legislation will be implemented in a little over 200 days, providing time for the government to introduce new bullfighting regulations.
While the new “non-violent” option spares bulls from being stabbed and killed, they will still endure the stress of being transported and forced to participate in these events for public amusement.
Lady Freethinker celebrates this progress, but we will continue to fight until bulls and all animals are free from exploitation in every form.
