In November 2020, with support from PETA and our members and supporters, the Town Council of Amherst, Massachusetts, voted unanimously to adopt a bylaw banning the use of wild or exotic animals in traveling shows. Amherst is the 13th municipality in the Commonwealth to pass similar legislation. PETA thanks local advocate Rebecca Schwartz, whose efforts to pass the ordinance were instrumental: She gathered support from over 150 residents, the town’s animal control officer, and multiple local and national organizations.
Amherst, Massachusetts, Bans the Use of Wild or Exotic Animals in Traveling Shows
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“Almost all of us grew up eating meat, wearing leather, and going to circuses and zoos. We never considered the impact of these actions on the animals involved. For whatever reason, you are now asking the question: Why should animals have rights?” READ MORE
— Ingrid E. Newkirk, PETA President and co-author of Animalkind