In a move stirring both cultural pride and ethical controversy, the Mexican state of Chiapas has temporarily lifted its ban on cockfighting, allowing regulated events to proceed until June 30, 2025.
This decision, formalized through an official decree, comes after a suspension of all cockfighting and horse racing activities earlier this year, which had significant economic repercussions for those involved in these traditional industries.
Efraín Rábago, head of the Sistema Nacional de Criadores de Aves de Combate (National System of Fighting Bird Breeders), expressed support for the decree, highlighting its benefits for breeders ranging from small-scale operators to those managing extensive flocks.
Rábago emphasized the organization’s commitment to advocating for the cockfighting community’s interests.
The reinstatement has reignited discussions about cockfighting’s role in Mexican culture. Advocates argue for its recognition as cultural heritage, a status already granted in states like Zacatecas, Aguascalientes, Tlaxcala, Nayarit, and Hidalgo. They contend that such acknowledgment preserves traditions and supports local economies.
Conversely, animal rights activists criticize the decision, pointing to the Chiapas State’s Law for the Protection of Wildlife, which aims to safeguard animal welfare. They argue that cockfighting, involving deliberate animal combat, contradicts the spirit of such legislation and raises ethical concerns about animal cruelty.
As Chiapas navigates this complex issue, the temporary legalization of cockfighting underscores the ongoing tension between preserving cultural practices and upholding contemporary animal welfare standards. The state’s decision will likely continue to spark debate as the June 30 deadline approaches.
