Stop Shriners’ circus animal abuse

Why are wild animals still being used in circuses? The Ringling Brothers Circus no longer includes animals. This should be the case with every circus. More people understand that wild animals used in the circus live miserable, unnatural lives and are subjected to abusive training.

Why don’t the El Kahir Shriners evolve and stop sponsoring circuses with wild animals? The money paid for a ticket cannot be deducted as a charitable contribution because it doesn’t go to fund a hospital. The tickets and website both state clearly that the money is for the benefit of the Shriners. Do you really want to fund their organization by supporting animal abuse?

The animals are trained using violence, intimidation and fear. Cruelty is not entertainment and it should no longer be tolerated. Please don't support any circus that uses wild animals, and ask the Cedar Rapids City Council and the Shriners to stop scheduling these events. Thank you.

Lynn Gallagher

Solon