On March 18th, the Mexico City Congress approved a historic reform in Mexico City that transforms the traditional bullfights.
With 61 votes in favor and only 1 against, the use of blood and cruelty towards bulls in these shows was decreed, now called “bullfighting shows free of violence.”
The Mayor, Clara Brugada, promoted this measure as part of an effort towards a city that respects animal rights.
What does the reform on bullfights consist of?
Key Prohibitions:
- Elimination of instruments such as banderillas, swords, and lances that caused injuries and death to the bull.
- An established limit of 10 minutes per bullfight.
- The bull’s horns must be protected to prevent harm to other animals or people.
Comprehensive Protection of the Bull:
- The physical integrity of the animals is guaranteed before, during, and after the show.
- Total prohibition of causing the death of the bull during the event.
Economic Sanctions:
- Fines of up to 339,000 pesos for those who violate these provisions.
Varied Reactions
In Favor:
According to a survey by Enkoll for the newspaper El País, 66% of the population supports shows without violence. This percentage is higher among young people, especially those aged 25 to 34 (82%).
Clara Brugada described the measure as a step towards a city free of animal abuse.
Against:
Supporters of bullfighting consider that this reform distorts bullfighting as an artistic expression. They mention the case of the Balearic Islands, where a similar reform was revoked due to public disinterest.
Cultural Impact
Bullfighting is a tradition with deep roots in Mexico, with the first bullfight recorded in 1526. However, surveys reflect a change in social perception:
According to the mentioned survey, 72% of citizens consider bullfighting a form of animal abuse, compared to 24% who see it as a cultural spectacle.
History and Context
Over the years, bullfights have faced several bans in Mexico. In 1867 Benito Juárez banned bullrings, and in 1916 Venustiano Carranza repeated this action.
Currently, states like Sonora, Guerrero, and Coahuila already prohibit them, while Tlaxcala, Aguascalientes, and other states recognize them as cultural heritage.
The future of bullfights without violence
Although the Mexico City reform sets a precedent, critics warn that it could affect attendance and the viability of bullfighting shows. The debate between preserving a cultural tradition and ensuring animal welfare remains a divisive discussion.
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