Photographer: Rodrigo Oropeza
Mexico City, 29 January - A historic bullfight is in full swing at the Arena of the Mexican capital. This is the first time that a Mexican district court has resumed bullfighting since June 2022, when a Mexican district court ordered an indefinite suspension of bullfighting. After the ban was lifted, this first bullfight attracted about 420,000 spectators attended to witness this exciting moment.
On that day, the arena was packed and the spectators cheered enthusiastically for the fierce battle between the matador and the bull. Six bulls were killed during the race, heroically demonstrating their fighting spirit and strength. However, about 300 animal protection activists held signs outside the venue and staged a demonstration, calling for a ban on bullfighting.
The resumption of this bullfight was facilitated by the reversal of the previous ban by the Mexican Supreme Court in December 2023. Bullfighting has been practiced in Mexico for about 500 years and has had a profound impact on the economy and society. Every year, bullfighting generates about 220,000 jobs and $400 million in economic revenue, contributing significantly to Mexico's economic development.
Photographer: Rodrigo Oropeza
Despite the opinions of animal rights activists, polls show that more than 70% of Mexicans support a ban on bullfighting. This data reflects the growing awareness of more and more Mexicans about animal rights and protection. However, for many Mexicans, bullfighting is not just a traditional activity, but also a cultural and historical heritage. They believe that bullfighting represents the national spirit and cultural identity of Mexico.
In the arena, the spectators cheered for the virtuosity of the matadors and the bravery of the bulls. They enjoyed the thrill of the game and felt the strength and courage it conveyed. However, for many opponents of bullfighting, this traditional practice is undoubtedly cruelty and cruelty to animals. They called for the outlawing of such activities and advocated for greater respect and protection of animal rights.
Despite the controversy, bullfighting still has a strong following as a traditional event in Mexico. Many people believe that bullfighting is a form of performance with artistic and cultural value, not just as a form of entertainment, but as a representation of Mexico's historical and cultural heritage. They emphasize that the bulls that are killed in the competition are carefully selected and trained to guarantee that they perform well in the competition.
In addition, some believe that animal rights activists are too harsh and biased in their criticism of bullfighting. They believe that while animal rights are important, human culture and traditions should not be ignored or erased. They stressed that while protecting animal rights, human culture and traditions should also be respected and protected.
However, with the progress of society and the growing concern for animal rights, more and more people have begun to call for the outlawing of bullfighting. They believe that this traditional activity is outdated and no longer conforms to the values and moral standards of modern society. They advocate for a more humane, animal-friendly way to pass on culture and traditions.
This first bullfight match after the ban was lifted at the Arena of the Mexican capital undoubtedly sparked widespread attention and discussion. It not only shows the love and dedication of Mexicans to traditional activities, but also reflects the society's concern for animal rights and increased awareness of protection. It remains to be seen how bullfighting in Mexico will develop in the future.