Melha Shrine Circus Goes Animal-Free, Receives a Big Thank-You From PETA
In the wake of an announcement that the Melha Shriners of Springfield, Massachusetts, will be putting on a completely animal-free circus this year at the Eastern States Coliseum, PETA is sending a thank-you letter and vegan cookies to the group.
When used in circus acts, animals are beaten into submission. Gentle elephants are threatened with sharp tools called “bullhooks,” and tigers are made to jump through hoops of fire, despite being naturally terrified of flames. What goes on behind the scenes isn’t any prettier: Animals are carted around the country in cramped trailers and left for hours on end in arena parking lots and backrooms.
Other shrine temples around the country continue to hire exhibitors to provide acts for their shows, many of whom, like Mitchel Kalmanson and the Carden family, are notorious animal abusers with lengthy records of federal Animal Welfare Act violations.
Never support circuses that abuse animals for cheap thrills.
The Melha Shriners’ compassionate decision puts them in line with the shifting tide of public opinion. Circus acts featuring only willing, human performers are captivating audiences while archaic, cruel animal acts—like those put on by Ringling Bros. and UniverSoul Circus—are on the decline. Remember: The way that you spend your money can drive real change for animals still suffering in the circus. Let those who exploit and harm animals know that you won’t be supporting them until they drop the cruelty.
And be sure to thank the Melha Shriners on their Facebook page for this animal-friendly move! Let them know that kind people like you appreciate their efforts to do right by elephants, tigers, and all other animals who still suffer for circus acts.
