The mayor of Mérida, Cecilia Patrón Laviada, has joined the campaign Your Way of “Loving” Hurts, an initiative that seeks to raise awareness about animal abuse, with a particular focus on illegal bird trafficking. During her speech, the mayor expressed her firm stance against this type of abuse, stressing the importance of combating practices that affect both wildlife and the ecological balance.
This campaign aims to raise awareness among the population about the consequences of acquiring or trading animals illegally, highlighting that behind these actions there is invisible suffering that is often ignored. Patrón Laviada emphasized that abuse is not only manifested in physical violence but also in the uprooting and stress suffered by trafficked birds.
Species trafficking is a problem that continues throughout the country, and Mérida is no exception. According to official figures, the illegal wildlife trade has increased in recent years, especially affecting exotic bird species, many of which are in danger of extinction. The mayor stressed that this type of activity not only threatens biodiversity but also generates a negative impact on public safety and animal welfare.
Through the Your Way of “Loving” Hurts campaign, the Mérida City Council seeks to promote citizen reporting and the strengthening of control operations in markets and points of sale where these species are usually sold. In addition, greater collaboration with animal protection associations and the implementation of educational programs that promote responsible ownership are proposed.
Cecilia Patrón Laviada reaffirmed her commitment to the protection of animals and the environment and encouraged citizens to actively participate in the eradication of this type of practice. “Loving animals is protecting them and respecting their freedom, not seeing them as merchandise.”
TYT Newsroom
