Editor, The Smithfield Times:

John Edwards’ historical piece (“Circus circuit frequently found its way to Smithfield,” May 7) about the circus serves as a reminder of how much has changed. 

Ringling Bros. went under and then came back with a successful animal-free model. Many other circuses have eliminated animal acts, and cities around the country and entire states have imposed strict bans on exotic animal displays. What’s baffling is those few, like the Shriners, that are still clinging to a cruel past.

The days of boxing up animals, beating them until they perform silly tricks, and tearing apart animal families and friends in the name of “entertainment” are undeniably coming to an end. P.T. Barnum himself couldn’t convince today’s public that hauling chained and caged animals around from city to city is still acceptable.

 

Jennifer O’Connor

PETA Foundation

Norfolk