**Mexico City Enacts Ban on Traditional Bullfighting Amid Animal Rights Debate**

The recent legislation reflects intense debates surrounding animal welfare and cultural traditions in Mexico.

In a significant cultural shift, Mexico City has officially outlawed traditional bullfighting through a decisive 61-1 vote by local lawmakers. This legislation, advocated by supporters of animal welfare such as President Claudia Sheinbaum and legislator Xochitl Bravo Espinosa, seeks to eliminate the injury and death of bulls within the context of such events. Although traditional practices have long been integral to Mexican culture, this new framework presents a non-violent alternative referred to as “bullfighting without violence.” The new rules restrict bullfighting to the use of capes and stipulate specific time limits for each bull's presence in the ring.

Critics of the legislation, including several organized bullfighting groups, have rallied in protest, citing the cultural significance and economic impact of the sport on local businesses. They argue that modifying bullfighting undermines centuries of tradition and threatens livelihoods tied to the industry. Despite these protests, Bravo Espinosa emphasized the need for balance, noting that the legislation aims to preserve jobs for individuals who work in association with these events, such as vendors and those involved in the bullfighting gear supply chain.

The enactment of this ban may symbolize a growing trend toward prioritizing animal rights in Latin America, amid ongoing global conversations about ethical treatment of animals and the place of traditional practices in modern society. As the debate continues, both sides are poised for further discussions on how to navigate the complexities surrounding tradition and welfare.