BOONE COUNTY, Ill. (WTVO) — Boone County Board Members have decided to ban multiple aspects of Mexican rodeos including horse tripping, citing concerns of animal cruelty.
“It’s a passionate topic on both sides of the aisle,” said Boone County Board Vice-Chair Ryan Curry. “Those who want to protect the animals and those who want to protect culture. So I can see the importance on both sides.”
The acts are a key part of a Mexican rodeo, or charrería, a sport that dates to the 16th century. The events are held on private properties across Boone County, and attract many spectators.
In 2023, the Ad Hoc Committee was formed after the County was sued by an animal rights group that accused it of not enforcing animal cruelty laws.
The board had four options to choose from in regard to a new ruling. They chose options 1 and 4.
Option one prohibits horse poling or tripping, horse tailing, and horse heeling. Option four says that anyone who owns an animal shall comply with the Illinois Human Care for Animals Act.
Both sides of the community had a chance to voice their opinion before the vote.
“Animals that are injured are not receiving veterinary care,” said Showing Animals Respect & Kindness President Steve Hindi. “That’s a violation of state law. Overworking [the animals] is a violation. Not getting vet care, Beating the animals, The constant electroshock all these are violations.”
Many on the side of rodeos feel banning certain aspects of the event is stripping away their culture.
“So by banning steer tailing, you are, in effect, shutting down the Mexican rodeos in this county,” said one Boone County rodeo organizer. “We do not agree with or condone animal abuse. We have and are willing to comply with the Illinois Humane Care for Animals Act.”
The county was sent a letter from Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, warning them of the legal ramifications of banning something that would disproportionally affect one race.
“The state of Illinois is committed to protecting the civil rights of all Illinois residents which include the right to live free from unlawful discrimination,” said Raoul. “We urge the Board to ensure that it is complying with its obligations under all applicable anti-discrimination laws.”
Board members said they do not take this vote lightly because they know the impact it will have on the community.
“It’s just [a] difficult subject, for some, its all or nothing, the others, it’s all or nothing” said Curry. “So it’s one of those [decisions] that someone tonight probably isn’t going to be as happy as the other. But it’s for the best interests of the county and our taxpayers and what we decide to.”
The board decided to table the option 2 and 3, which would ban saddle bronc riding, bull riding, steer tailing, bovine wrestling, and barrel racing.
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