A circus introducing itself as “The Colossus with 100 animals” has landed in Bacoli, in the province of Naples, immediately generating controversy due to the illegal posting of advertising posters. The mayor, Josi Della Ragione, denounced the practice and decided to intervene promptly, imposing heavy fines and removing the flyers from the city.
The mayor underlined how in Bacoli the exploitation of animals in circuses is prohibited, places where suffering is made spectacular. The intervention was not limited to the simple removal of the posters: the fines imposed on the circus will be used to support a concrete project, allocating the funds raised to local strays. Della Ragione stated:
To make it known that it has arrived a few kilometers from us, the circus decided to illegally put up its posters throughout our city. All excellent ingredients for being kicked out, immediately. Because in Bacoli not only is the destruction of the circus with animals prohibited. A place where the suffering of animals is made spectacular. But, here, it is also forbidden to publicize this degradation. Wherever it happens. And we are intransigent. Even worse when this happens in a wild way. We are therefore taking steps to tear up every one of his leaflets. Not before, obviously, having given him heavy fines. I thank the Municipal Police for their prompt intervention. We will use the money from this ‘Colossus’ to help our affectionate stray animals.
The reactions of the circus world
The mayor’s decision triggered a reaction from the circus activities union, with the national secretary Bianca Montico recalling the importance of legality and respect for administrative rules, while criticizing the denigrating tones used towards circus entrepreneurs. Montico highlighted how such statements can fuel a climate of media hostility, underlining the need to distinguish between legal control and personal attacks.
An example of civil liability
Yet the initiative of the Municipality of Bacoli must be praised because it highlights the fact that circuses with animals represent a form of exploitation and suffering. Taking action against this type of entertainment means protecting defenseless creatures, raising awareness in the community and promoting an ethical show that respects nature and animal life.
In addition to stopping exploitation, the fines imposed on the circus will be used for a concrete purpose: helping local strays. Transforming a violation into an opportunity for solidarity demonstrates foresight and responsibility, showing how legality can go hand in hand with the protection of the most vulnerable animals. The mayor’s action represents a virtuous model: with decision and clarity he intervenes against practices that exploit animals. An example that Italian cities can follow.
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