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Mexico City has made a significant change to its bullfighting practices by voting to replace traditional bullfights with a new, bloodless format. This decision follows a citizens’ initiative that initially sought an outright ban on bullfighting, which has faced increasing scrutiny and opposition from animal rights advocates.
Under the new regulations, the Plaza México, the largest bullfighting arena in the world, will continue to host bullfighting events. However, these events will no longer involve the traditional weapons that have historically been used to injure or kill bulls. Instead, matadors will use only capes, and the bulls’ horns will be protected to prevent injuries. Each event will be limited to 15 minutes, after which the bulls will be returned unharmed to their owners and ranches.
The reform has garnered mixed reactions. While animal rights activists have welcomed the decision as a step toward reducing animal cruelty, they express concerns that a non-violent bullfighting format may still cause suffering to the animals involved. Critics of the reform argue that the essence of bullfighting lies in its dramatic and violent nature, raising doubts about the potential success of bloodless events.
This initiative highlights an ongoing struggle to reconcile tradition with evolving societal views on animal welfare. Proponents of the reform, including Mexico City’s government officials, emphasize the necessity of modernizing cultural practices to align with contemporary ethical standards. However, the bullfighting industry has voiced strong opposition, claiming that they were not adequately consulted during the decision-making process.
As this new chapter in bullfighting unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the bloodless format will attract spectators or if it will lead to increased calls for a complete ban on the practice. The decision marks a broader trend in global attitudes toward animal rights, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for ethical considerations in cultural traditions.
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