A Personal Perspective.
The use of wild animals in circuses is not ethical. In circuses, elephants and other wild animals are deprived of meaningful lives. They are confined to small enclosures, leading to stress and depression. Trainers use punishment and coercive techniques to make animals perform unnatural acts which strip them of dignity and autonomy, causing a life time of suffering.
This reality underscores ethical concerns about using wild animals for entertainment and highlights the need to reevaluate circus practices and discuss animal rights and welfare.
My Introduction to Animal Welfare
A few years ago, I photographed a wedding at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival, experiencing the medieval-themed event with lively costumes, performances, and crafts. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, music, and the aroma of roasted turkey legs. After the wedding, I enjoyed exploring the festival until I saw elephant rides. Multiple elephants were confined to carry children and intoxicated adults, raising ethical concerns regarding the animal's safety and comfort. This troubling sight contrasted with the festival's joy and highlighted the complexities of animal welfare. The experience left a lasting impression.
My heart sank as I witnessed this.
One thing about me is that I have a lot of compassion for animals. People often treat them terribly. Live animal shows are one of those terrible things. Watching ponies and elephants being forced to perform humiliating tricks is distressing.
The truth is that wild animals have the same needs as they would in the wild, which can't be met in a traveling circus.
Elephants are intelligent and social creatures. They need the freedom to move around in herds, making their own choices, not being forced to give rides and perform tricks. The sadness I felt drove me to seek out others who shared my views, leading me to the Animal Rights Coalition "ARC".
The Animal Rights Coalition is committed to ensuring that animals receive the respect and compassion they deserve. This non-profit group supports animals through education, advocacy, and intervention efforts. They frequently organize peaceful protests to assist animals in need.
One of ARC's annual protests starts at the end of March, targeting The Osman Shrine Circus known for its use of wild animals under the pretense of "education" and "entertainment."
“ARC” volunteers protest outside of Osman Shrine Circus | March 2024
Traveling Circus - MN State Fairgrounds
The Coliseum on the MN State Fairgrounds hosts The Osman Shrine Circus every Spring. They show animal acts with elephants, camels, bison, and ponies. However, the circus's treatment of animals has sparked controversy.
Testimonials and photos reveal circus trainers using bullhooks and whips, raising ethical concerns about humane treatment. Critics argue this reflects a systemic issue prioritizing profit over animal welfare, ignoring psychological and physical tolls. Studies show harsh training causes stress and behavioral issues, fueling ethical debates on using animals for entertainment. As societal values shift towards humane treatment, the circus industry faces pressure to reassess practices and find alternatives, challenging the balance between entertainment and ethical responsibility.
Wild animals have the same needs as they would in the wild, which can't be met in a traveling circus.
Betty: Star Attraction of Shrine Circus
Betty, a 55-year-old elephant, allegedly suffers from chronic lameness, likely due to prolonged chaining and confinement. This condition severely affects her mobility and quality of life, as she cannot bend her left front ankle, impacting her gait and raising concerns about further complications. Betty consistently drags her trunk, possibly indicating discomfort and serving as a support mechanism due to her limited mobility.
Owned (and arguably held captive) by Carden Circus International, Betty performs in circuses across the U.S., including in Minnesota's St. Paul. Her health issues and underscore the broader treatment of captive wildlife for entertainment. This situation highlights the need to reconsider such captivity of animals like Betty, who endure lifelong confinement and exploitation.
ARC's group of dedicated volunteers protested outside of the Coliseum for Betty's sake, attempting to educate the show's attendees about her depressing situation and pushing for the circus to release her to a sanctuary where she can finally retire.
Below is a review from a show attendee.
Source: Trip Advisor Jan 19, 2024
"This show was SO SAD to watch! I attended the Osman Shrine Circus in St. Paul, MN in March of 2023 and the animals looked absolutely miserable. The men in charge of handling the elephants waved and swung around their bull hooks to intimidate these majestic animals as they carried 10+ children on their backs. One elephant's trunk dragged across the floor as she walked in circles over and over again. Children laughed and took pictures on the backs of camels as they were yanked throughout the ring by their handlers."
Photo courtesy of Flickr / Margaret McMullen
Freedom of Speech and Protest
One of my favorite things about our country, the United States, is the freedom of speech. We are allowed to express opinions without censorship. The week before the live animal shows, Osman Shrine Circus attempted to sue ARC and prevent the group from protesting. They paid a lawyer to threaten a non-profit organization into refraining from their American right to free speech. What an embarrassment on the part of the circus.
We continued with our peaceful protest, despite their threats.
I personally watched the circus employees stand outside and be rude to protesters, going as far as to place a trash can nearby and order attendees to toss our flyers into the trash. The Shriner employees would repeatedly spit on the flyers, as well as argue with volunteers. They constantly called over police officers to complain and yelled at us every chance they had. We continued with our peaceful protest, despite their insolent behavior.
Call to Action: Attend an Animal-Free Circus
ARC's goal is for all circuses to become animal-free, meaning they exclusively feature human performers.
Cirque du Soleil (translated to Circus of the Sun) is a prime example because they are thriving! Since its founding in 1984, it has performed for more than 180 million people in 450 cities on every continent but Antarctica. No animals, just pure human talent. Their Vegas show is something you have to see at least once in your life. Literal bucket list goal.
"O" celebrates the beauty of theatre with world-class divers, synchronized swimmers, and acrobats to create an experience that is simply magnificent. I highly recommend.
Don't Forget to Volunteer
Each spring, the St. Paul Osman Shrine Circus performs at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Let them hear from you. Let them know that you demand animal-free circuses.
Join ARC at any of the following times to stand in solidarity against animal exploitation and cruelty:
Thursday, March 20, 6:00-7:30 PM
Friday, March 21, 1:30-3:00 PM
Friday, March 21, 6:30-8:00 PM
Saturday, March 22, 9:00-10:30 AM
Saturday, March 22, 1:30-3:00 PM
Saturday, March 22, 6:30-8:00 PM
Sunday, March 23, 2:00-3:30 PM
ARC will have a permit to be inside the fairgrounds. The shows are held inside the Coliseum.
Volunteers will meet at the corner of Judson Ave and Liggett St, across the street from the entrance into the Coliseum (do not stand on the same side as the entrance to the Coliseum unless we have given permission). Signs will be provided.
𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗡 THE PETITION HERE
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Emily captures people (and their dogs) at weddings! She resides with her five lively dogs, Nessie, Peach, Sammi, Vinny, and Bob. They chew everything in sight, occupy the entire bed, and most importantly, give the best hugs.
Emily started her career as a professional photographer in 2018 and has since had the chance to share unforgettable moments with hundreds of couples that will be treasured forever. Her aim is to narrate the story not just of your wedding day, but of your love.
