Maryland Votes For Animals, Inc. thanks sponsors Senator Sarah Elfreth and Delegate Sara Love for making Maryland the 10th state to pass legislation prohibiting elephants, big cats, bears, and non-human primates in traveling acts and circuses. We look forward to Governor Wes Moore signing our bill and sending a clear message that Maryland will not support this outdated and cruel form of entertainment!
Viola, an elderly elephant from Carson & Barnes Circus, recently escaped in Butte, Montana while performing with Jordan World Circus. This incident, where she wandered through traffic and was recaptured, marks another attempt in a series of escapes, underscoring the unnatural conditions and cruel treatment captive elephants endure in circuses.
Viola’s history includes previous escapes in 2014 and 2010, each resulting in injuries. The broader context reveals a gradual shift away from animal-based entertainment, driven by public pressure and legislative changes.
Several states and localities have implemented bans on using wild animals in circuses, and federal actions have been taken against Carson & Barnes for violations of the Animal Welfare Act. The public is encouraged to support legislation aimed at enhancing animal protection laws, highlighting a move toward more humane entertainment practices without animal exploitation.
You can read the entire story at https://www.humanesociety.org/blog/elephant-escape-circus-montana