Recently, the owners of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus announced their decision to shut down operations in May, marking the end of a 146-year legacy. While some were taken aback, others reminisced about the good old days, and a portion of the population celebrated this decision. Personally, I found myself questioning why it took so long for this change to happen.
The closure of such an iconic institution is undoubtedly complex, with real consequences such as job losses for those who have been part of the circus community for generations and the need for new homes for the animals involved. However, in light of the cruelty and abuse that has often been part of this “tradition,” it seems appropriate to bid farewell.
Many of us carry cherished memories of the circus—the excitement of the train arriving in town, the dazzling performers, and the majestic animals that captivated our youthful imaginations. We were blissfully unaware of the darker realities that lay beneath the surface, and even as we matured and began to understand more, we frequently chose to ignore the unsettling truths. Perhaps it was the sight of a bullhook or witnessing an animal being struck that triggered a sense of discomfort. For some, the realization that something was amiss came later, perhaps through reading books like Water for Elephants or The One and Only Ivan, or hearing about incidents like the tragic death of Kenny, a young elephant with the circus in 1998.
As a doctor and an animal lover, I have always viewed pets as part of my family. My household takes pride in treating all living creatures with respect; we even go to great lengths to avoid harming insects. My visits to the circus have been few. As a child, I enjoyed the sugary snacks and the dazzling acts, but as an adult, the joy began to fade as I felt uncomfortable witnessing the exploitation of animals. I recall taking my son to the circus when he was little, watching his face light up with wonder as he rode an elephant and observed tigers performing. Yet, I couldn’t shake the nagging feeling that this wasn’t right.
The circus has faced scrutiny for years regarding its treatment of animals, with practices that range from questionable to horrifying. While many turned a blind eye, the stories of neglect and cruelty could no longer be ignored. Jan Peterson, a leading advocate for animal rights, aptly stated, “We didn’t know any better. Now, we do. People are more educated and recognize suffering and cruelty in other species. They no longer want to witness animals suffering for mere entertainment.”
While the closing of the circus may evoke mixed feelings for some, I find it primarily a cause for relief. I don’t believe in sacrificing the well-being of animals for fleeting amusement. Yes, the closure impacts jobs, but it’s possible to create solutions that protect animals while also providing new employment opportunities. Families can still enjoy quality time together by visiting animal sanctuaries or engaging in activities that support local shelters. For more information on how to navigate these options, check out this excellent resource on thinking about fertility treatment or explore home insemination kits for those considering alternative paths to parenthood.
In conclusion, while nostalgia for the “greatest show on earth” persists, I am grateful to see an end to a chapter filled with exploitation. And please, let’s not even begin to discuss the clowns.
Summary
The closure of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus signals a positive shift away from animal cruelty and exploitation. While job losses are unfortunate, it’s possible to prioritize the well-being of animals while still enjoying family entertainment. Families can seek alternatives like animal sanctuaries or other performances that don’t involve animal suffering.