Circuses in Mexico Are On a Tightrope Over Animals Manuel Larios and Daniel Hernandez - VICE News
go to original June 14, 2014

When it comes to love of circuses, Mexico does not clown around. For hundreds of years, traveling and fixed circuses have captivated Mexicans of all classes, especially with the marquee draw of live performances with tigers and elephants.

Circus-going became a social tradition able to survive the enormous cultural shifts Mexico has faced since the onslaught of globalization. Until now.

Since late 2013, seven of Mexico’s 31 states have outlawed animals in circus performances and, on Monday, Mexico City became the latest authority to prohibit the practice.

The local law goes into effect within a year, with circuses facing hefty fines if they fall out of line and trot out any animals for a paying public during performances. France’s Cirque de Soleil, legislators reasoned, is successful and beloved by audiences without the use of animals.

Supporters of the law said animals suffer cruel conditions in circus captivity.

But in response, clowns and acrobats in Mexico City are calling foul play, arguing that the law directly targets their industry, while permitting other entertainment with animals to continue.

Read the rest at VICE News

Photo: AP/Rebecca Blackell

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