The Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus has announced it will be shutting down in May, marking the end of its 146-year legacy. This news elicited a range of reactions: some were shocked, others reminisced about the past, while some celebrated the decision. Personally, I couldn’t help but think, why did it take so long?
The closure of the circus is certainly a multi-faceted issue. It will lead to job losses for those who have dedicated their lives to this unique culture, and animals will need to find new homes. Yes, we’re bidding farewell to an American tradition. However, given the troubling history of cruelty and exploitation associated with this “tradition,” it feels like a necessary farewell.
Many of us hold cherished memories of the circus, envisioning the grand train arriving in town, containing fascinating performers and awe-inspiring animals that captured our youthful imaginations. We were blissfully unaware of the darker realities behind the scenes, and many of us chose to remain ignorant. Deep down, though, we sensed that something was amiss. Perhaps it was witnessing a bullhook or the first time we saw an animal being whipped. Maybe it was the cramped, filthy cages or the sight of a majestic elephant walking in endless circles. None of this seemed natural.
For some, the realization came later in life—perhaps after reading Water for Elephants as an adult or sharing The One and Only Ivan with our children. Documentaries and news articles, like the tragic story of Kenny, a young elephant who died while touring with the Ringling Bros., shattered the illusion. Investigations into animal welfare, including a revealing piece by Mother Jones detailing rampant diseases and other abuses, made it clear that the circus was not the enchanting spectacle we once believed it to be.
As an animal lover, I’ve never been particularly fond of the circus. My pets are family to me, and in our home, we avoid harming even the tiniest creatures. I’ve only attended a handful of circus performances. As a child, I enjoyed the cotton candy and the dazzling acrobats. However, as an adult, my discomfort grew, yet I couldn’t help but relish the joy on my son’s face when we took him to the circus as a toddler. He was thrilled to ride elephants and watch tigers perform, while I suppressed the unsettling feeling that something was fundamentally wrong.
For years, the circus has faced scrutiny for its questionable treatment of animals. While many chose to ignore the truth, awareness has grown. Jan Roberts, president of Animal Advocates United, emphasized to a reporter, “We simply didn’t know any better. Now that we do, we can’t turn a blind eye to suffering for the sake of entertainment.”
While the closing of the circus may be bittersweet for some, I see it as more sweet than bitter. I simply cannot endorse the suffering of animals for any amount of time. Yes, the closure will impact jobs, but we can create solutions that protect animal welfare while supporting workers. Families can enjoy quality time with animals—both domestic and wild—without compromising their well-being. Consider visiting animal sanctuaries or attending performances like Cirque du Soleil. You can even volunteer at local shelters or adopt endangered species through organizations like the World Wildlife Fund.
We can be compassionate towards both humans and animals; it’s not a zero-sum game. We are all animals in this world. So while some may hold onto nostalgic memories of this “greatest show on earth,” I, for one, am relieved and grateful to see it come to an end. And don’t even get me started on the clowns.
In summary, the closing of the circus represents a shift toward greater awareness and compassion for animals. While it may bring challenges, there are many opportunities for joy and connection without the exploitation of living beings.