Catalonia Hangs Up the Matador’s Cape

Depending on one’s perspective, the Spanish region of Catalonia’s decision to ban bullfighting represents either the beginning of the end of a time-honored tradition or a much-needed move in the direction of the humane treatment of animals. Actually, there may also be a third option.

BBC:

In Wednesday’s vote, 68 backed a ban, 55 voted against and nine abstained.

[...] The vote was close as the two main parties in parliament took the unusual step of allowing members to cast their ballots according to their conscience.

But while the official debate is over animal rights, many believe this process is an attempt by nationalist-minded Catalans to mark their difference from the rest of Spain by rejecting one of its best known traditions.

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Wikimedia Commons / MarcusObal

No mas: Catalonians made the bold move to end bullfighting in their region on Wednesday.