In a landmark decision, Mexico City has officially banned traditional bullfighting, a move heralded by animal rights advocates but challenged by supporters of the long-standing tradition. The legislation, passed with a striking 61-1 vote, prohibits any actions that would harm or kill bulls during these events, echoing a broader trend toward animal welfare across the nation.
Under this new law, while bullfighting can still occur, it must adhere to strict guidelines aimed at ensuring that bulls are not subjected to violence. This includes limiting the duration of the bull's time in the ring and restricting matadors to the use of capes only. Xochitl Bravo Espinosa, the legislator advocating for the bill, emphasized the importance of animal welfare, while also recognizing the need to support workers who rely on the bullfighting industry.
Despite these concessions, proponents of traditional bullfighting voiced strong opposition to the ban, demonstrating outside the legislature on the day of the vote. In a collective statement, bullfighting organizations decried the legislation as a significant blow to their cultural heritage, signaling that this is merely the beginning of ongoing efforts to preserve bullfighting in Mexico.
As the debate continues, the future of this centuries-old tradition hangs in the balance, with both sides poised for further discussion and action in the wake of this historic legislation.
Under this new law, while bullfighting can still occur, it must adhere to strict guidelines aimed at ensuring that bulls are not subjected to violence. This includes limiting the duration of the bull's time in the ring and restricting matadors to the use of capes only. Xochitl Bravo Espinosa, the legislator advocating for the bill, emphasized the importance of animal welfare, while also recognizing the need to support workers who rely on the bullfighting industry.
Despite these concessions, proponents of traditional bullfighting voiced strong opposition to the ban, demonstrating outside the legislature on the day of the vote. In a collective statement, bullfighting organizations decried the legislation as a significant blow to their cultural heritage, signaling that this is merely the beginning of ongoing efforts to preserve bullfighting in Mexico.
As the debate continues, the future of this centuries-old tradition hangs in the balance, with both sides poised for further discussion and action in the wake of this historic legislation.
