In a historic win for animal welfare, Michoacán has officially banned bullfighting—becoming the seventh state in Mexico to outlaw the brutal spectacle. This landmark decision reflects a growing shift in societal values, rejecting cruelty in the name of tradition and embracing a more compassionate future for animals.
With this historic move, Michoacán joins Guerrero, Sinaloa, Sonora, Coahuila, and Quintana Roo in banning bullfighting. Meanwhile, Mexico City recently took its own step by prohibiting “violent bullfights”—banning the killing of bulls and the use of sharp tools that may injure them.
The important bill to implement the ban was introduced by Congresswoman Giulianna Bugarini and championed by the advocacy group México Sin Toreo. Its passage by the Michoacán State Congress signals mounting momentum for animal protection across the country and sends a clear message: cruelty is not culture.
“The ban has received widespread support from citizens and organizations who have long opposed the brutal practices associated with bullfighting. By stepping away from this tradition, Michoacán is advocating for a future that embraces cultural evolution and respects animal welfare,” said Claudia Edwards, campaign director for Humane World for Animals Mexico.
As Michoacán leads by example, it challenges other states to reconsider the role of animal suffering in traditional festivities—and to envision a future where compassion leads the way.
