‘Tigers’ in Norfolk to Crack the Whip on Ringling’s Cruelty to Animals

PETA Mascots Crying, ‘Let My People Go,’ Will Urge Audiences to Stay Away Until All Animals Are Retired

For Immediate Release:
March 24, 2017

Contact:
David Perle 202-483-7382

What:    Two “tigers” will lead a crowd of PETA supporters in a lively protest outside Ringling Bros.’ opening night at the Scope Arena in downtown Norfolk on Thursday, when the circus opens there for the final time. The protesters will urge potential attendees to stay away from all circuses until no lions, tigers, camels, or any other animals are caged, chained, or beaten into performing under the big top.

When:    Thursday, March 23, 6 p.m.

Where:    Scope Arena, at the intersection of Monticello Avenue and E. Charlotte Street, Norfolk

“The curtain couldn’t drop soon enough on what has been a nightmare for wonderful wild animals who’ve been deprived of a real life,” says PETA Foundation Associate Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement Rachel Mathews. “PETA is using this opportunity to call on families to skip these shows and never buy a ticket to any circus that makes money from cruel animal acts.”

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to use for entertainment”—notes that wild animals used in circuses are often torn away from their mothers as babies and confined to barren cages and cramped boxcars when not performing. They are forced to do tricks under the threat of being whipped, beaten, or shocked with an electric prod and commonly suffer from chronic health problems as well as psychological disorders and die prematurely.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.