Horses Allegedly Kicked, Hit, and Overworked at Festival Deserve Justice

Target: Ichiro Miyashita, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Japan

Goal: Ensure the prosecution of those involved in the alleged mistreatment of horses at the Ageuma Shinji festival and push for the festival’s end to prevent future abuse.

For centuries, the Ageuma Shinji festival in Japan’s Mie prefecture has captivated spectators with its thrilling horse races. However, the event has come under intense scrutiny, with activists alleging serious mistreatment of the horses involved. Recent reports suggest that the animals are subjected to physical abuse during training, with disturbing claims that they are kicked, hit, and pushed to their limits. Additionally, older horses, no longer able to compete, are reportedly sent to slaughterhouses after the festival.

A complaint filed by animal rights activists has led Mie prefectural police to take action, forwarding allegations of animal abuse to the prosecutor’s office. However, there are fears that the case might be dropped, as has happened in previous years.

The festival, once a gentle parade to honor horses, has evolved into a dangerous spectacle that critics say is needlessly cruel. Despite recent changes to the event, such as the removal of a final embankment, activists claim that the abuse continues behind the scenes. It’s crucial that this case is fully investigated and that those responsible for the alleged cruelty are held accountable. Take immediate now.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear Ichiro Miyashita,

I am writing to ask you to push for the prosecution of individuals involved in the alleged mistreatment of horses during the Ageuma Shinji festival in Kuwana. Reports from animal rights groups suggest that horses are subjected to severe physical abuse during training and that older horses are slaughtered after the event. The recent complaint filed against 12 individuals, including festival organizers, highlights ongoing concerns about animal cruelty.

While some changes have been made to the festival in response to these concerns, it is evident that more needs to be done to protect the welfare of these animals. I strongly encourage your office to ensure that the case moves forward and that those responsible for this cruelty are brought to justice. It is essential that Japan upholds its animal welfare laws and demonstrates a commitment to ending such mistreatment.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: 名古屋太郎