In Mexico, cockfighting is still highly popular despite public outcry in recent years. According to Reuters, the activity is rooted in a tradition dating back to the 18th century.
Mexico has no animal protection laws that prohibit cockfighting. However, critics are now calling for the practice to be outlawed.
“Cockfighting inflicts unnecessary suffering in roosters,” one of the critics said in an interview with Reuters.
On the other hand, Mexicans who rely on cockfighting to make a living say that “Cockfighting is essential to keep food on the table and preserve family traditions.”
Efforts to declare cockfighting as an intangible cultural heritage in Mexico were blocked by the Supreme Court, ruling that the move was unconstitutional. The ruling does not prohibit cockfighting but it opened the door for cockfighting to be challenged.
