Two PETA activists disrupted Pope Francis' general audience in Vatican City, voicing their opposition to bullfighting. The protesters, wearing t-shirts with the message "Stop blessing corridas" and holding banners declaring "Bullfighting is a sin," were escorted out of Paul VI Hall.
PETA has been campaigning for the Catholic Church to sever its connections with bullfighting, a practice that originated in Spain in the 8th century. The organization argues that tens of thousands of bulls are killed annually in bullfighting festivals worldwide, many of which are dedicated to Catholic saints.
Bullfighting, which developed into its modern form in the 18th century, has been a contentious issue for animal rights activists. The practice involves mounted assailants inflicting pain on the bull with lances and banderillas, ultimately leading to the animal's death. PETA emphasizes that this form of entertainment causes acute suffering and restricts the bull's movement.
The organization has called on Pope Francis to denounce bullfighting, citing his own encyclical Laudato Si', which states that cruelty to any creature is "contrary to human dignity." PETA also references historical precedent, noting that as early as the 16th century, Pope St. Pius V banned bullfights deemed 'cruel' and 'far removed from Christian piety and charity.'
British priest Terry Martin has joined PETA's campaign, posing in a red chasuble next to a bull with the inscription: "It is a sin to torture animals." This action highlights the growing opposition to bullfighting within religious circles.
While bullfighting remains part of Spain's cultural heritage, several Spanish cities have declared themselves anti-bullfighting. In 2010, Catalonia banned the practice, although this ban was overturned in 2016. The Canary Islands have maintained a ban on bullfighting since 1991, demonstrating a shift in public opinion.
The debate surrounding bullfighting extends beyond animal welfare concerns. Some argue that the practice contributes to bull conservation efforts, as fighting bulls have an average lifespan of 5-6 years. However, critics maintain that the intentional breeding of bulls for fights is unethical.
As of 2024-08-07, the Vatican has not immediately commented on the protest. The incident underscores the ongoing tension between cultural traditions and evolving perspectives on animal rights, challenging religious institutions to reconsider their stance on practices that many consider outdated and cruel.
"As numerous countries are wisely banning this sick form of 'entertainment,' Pope Francis must immediately denounce this blood sport and cut the Catholic Church's shameful ties with bullfighting."
The controversy surrounding bullfighting continues to evolve, with the European Parliament voting in 2015 to stop EU subsidies for bull breeding for fights. As public awareness grows and more regions implement bans, the future of this centuries-old practice remains uncertain.