[Date]
To the Editor:
I am deeply concerned by the [Location's/Sponsor's] decision
to bring a circus with performing wild animals to our area.
[If you are responding to an article in a previous issue of
the newspaper/magazine, cite the article's title and
date.]
The elephants, big cats, bears, primates, and other wild
animals who are used in circuses endure inhumane and abusive
training and living conditions. When they are not performing,
they spend the great majority of their time in extremely close
confinement and have little legal protection at state or
federal levels.
In addition, performing wild animals pose a real threat to
public safety, precisely because they are wild and therefore
unpredictable. No amount of training or affection can eliminate
this danger.
I urge the [Location/Sponsor] to sponsor events that do not
involve animals, such as arts and crafts fairs, tractor pulls,
auto shows, and concerts. The use of performing wild animals
not only creates a dangerous atmosphere, but also desensitizes
individuals—especially impressionable children—to animal
suffering.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your City, State, Zip]
[Your Telephone Number]
Note: Some newspapers require
your address and phone number before they publish a letter to
the editor, but you may request that this information be
withheld.
