On Wednesday, January 1, a group of activists gathered in front of the Mérida Bullring to protest against the traditional bullfight on horseback. The protest took place in the García Ginerés neighborhood, where the bullring is located.
The demonstration began around 3:00 p.m., with protesters positioning themselves at the corner of 33B and 72 streets. The activists carried signs and banners condemning bullfighting and used megaphones to chant slogans, which led to verbal exchanges with attendees of the event.
Tensions escalated when the spears appeared, prompting the protesters to follow them to one of the entrances of the bullring, shouting complaints. Fortunately, the timely presence of authorities prevented the situation from worsening, especially since there were minors present.
Dialogue with Authorities
Elsa Arceo, president of the organization Rescatistas Independientes de Mérida, Yucatán, announced that a meeting with Mérida City Council members and local deputies is planned in the coming days. The meeting aims to address the increase in animal abuse cases and discuss potential actions to prevent such incidents. Arceo expressed hope that Mayor Cecilia Patrón would join the dialogue.
Call for Governor’s Intervention
The protesters also called on Yucatán Governor Joaquín Díaz Mena to intervene and put an end to bullfighting in the state. They noted that similar events have been banned in other states across the country.
Irving Mena, a member of the Independent Rescuers group, highlighted a 2016 recommendation from the Human Rights Commission of Yucatán, which advised against the participation of minors in bullfighting events due to the potential impact on their mental health.
Source: Por Esto
