Legislative Decision on Bullfighting in Mexico City
In the largest bullfighting city of the world’s top bullfighting nation, Mexico City lawmakers voted decisively on Tuesday to prohibit traditional bullfighting. This decision garnered support from Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, but faced strong opposition from advocates of the long-standing practice.
Details of the New Legislation
The law passed with a remarkable 61-1 vote, banning the injury or killing of bulls for entertainment purposes, both inside and outside the arenas. It endorses what supporters refer to as “bullfighting without violence,” which sets limits on how long a bull can be in the ring and restricts bullfighters to using only capes.
Balance Between Tradition and Animal Welfare
Mexico City legislator Xochitl Bravo Espinosa, who played a significant role in the initiative, expressed her dedication to animal welfare. She mentioned that lawmakers aimed to strike a balance, allowing modified bullfights to continue to support those reliant on the bullfighting industry, such as vendors at La Plaza México, the world’s largest bullfighting arena.
Response from Bullfighting Advocates
Supporters of bullfighting criticized the new law and protested outside the legislature on Tuesday morning. In a collective statement, four bullfighting organizations declared, “This is just the beginning of a fight for our bullfighting.” Raúl Pérez Johnston, representing Tauromaquia Mexicana, indicated that the implementation of the law raised several questions and that they intend to legally challenge it.
Cultural Implications and Historical Context
In a statement prior to the vote, La Plaza México declared that the proposed changes represented a “clear threat” to one of the nation’s most ingrained cultural traditions, stating that the alterations “twist the essence” of bullfighting. The practice, introduced in Mexico in the 1500s by Spain, has faced increasing scrutiny and declining popularity over the years.
Statistics and Future Outlook
According to the Mexico City legislature, 168 bulls were killed at La Plaza México in 2019. Supporters claim this number reflects only a small fraction of bulls born in Mexico and assert that the bullfighting industry sustains tens of thousands of jobs. Under the new regulations, fights will last no more than 15 minutes, with a limit of six fights per event and the use of only traditional capes.
Mixed Reactions and Path Forward
Mayor Clara Brugada of Mexico City, who championed the violence-free option, expressed her joy over the vote. Both she and Ms. Sheinbaum have lauded the shift towards non-violent bullfighting as a significant step forward. While some animal rights groups endorsed the legislation, they insisted it fell short of their goal for complete abolition. Legislator Bravo Espinosa announced that new guidelines for the non-violent bull events would be developed in consultation with all stakeholders within seven months.
