CDMX Congress Approves Non-Violent Bullfighting Proposal

The Commission on Constitutional Points and Citizen Initiatives of the CDMX Congress has approved a report on non-violent bullfighting. The report, which includes modifications to the original citizen initiative, will be taken to the plenary for discussion on Tuesday, March 18. The changes were unanimously approved by the 10 legislators and align with proposals announced by Government Head, Clara Brugada, to continue bullfighting in the capital, but without violence.

The revised proposal introduces the concept of a "non-violent bullfighting spectacle". This allows for a variety of bullfighting events, including novice bullfighting, bullfighting on horseback, bullfights using young calves, bullfighting festivals, and testing the bravery of young bulls. Crucially, these events must not cause any injury to the animals or result in their death during or after the event.

The report also prohibits the use of sharp objects that could harm or kill the bull or novice. These include lances, barbed sticks, swords, and stabbing instruments. Only the cape and a small red cloth fixed to a stick can be used. Additionally, the maximum performance time for each bull or novice in the non-violent bullfighting spectacle will be 10 minutes. There is a limit of six animals per event, and fines will be imposed for each injured or killed animal.

During Friday's session, PVEM deputy Jesús Sesma noted that this is the first time in CDMX's history that a citizen initiative has been ruled on, and the first time that a bullfighting report will be presented for discussion.

"This is not a minor issue. The Mexico City Bullring will be different after next Tuesday. It's an iconic venue worldwide, the largest on the planet. Today, we have the opportunity to make history by ending the bloodshed and death in bullfighting," he said.