Quintana Roo, known for its white-sand beaches and tropical jungles, is a popular tourist destination. The Congress of this state in southern Mexico sets an excellent example of kindness and common sense for the rest of the world by leading the charge for animals and enacting laws that protect them. Now, the Congress has passed crucial legislation that bans the display of wild animals in public spaces. We need your help to ask that Governor Carlos Joaquín publish the law in the Official Gazette so that it can take effect and protect animals.

Wild animals used for public encounters are almost constantly confined to cramped cages when not used in interactions with the public. Big-cat mothers are forced to mass-produce cubs, who are usually taken away when they’re only hours, days, or weeks old. They often suffer in extreme temperatures and are deprived of everything that’s natural and important to them so that exhibitors can make a quick buck. In just weeks, the cubs grow too large and dangerous for public contact, and they’re usually left in barren cages at roadside zoos for the rest of their lives. Children and adults have been injured by tigers, primates, reptiles, and other animals during direct contact.

After being contacted by the local animal rights organization Animal Heroes, by dozens of concerned tourists and local residents, and by PETA Latino and our supporters, state legislators unanimously voted to amend the Quintana Roo Animal Protection and Welfare Law to prohibit the exhibition of wildlife in public spaces.

Please act now! Ask the governor of Quintana Roo to publish the law in the Official Gazette so that it can take effect.