The outrage that erupted worldwide, including in Australia, after Cecil the lion was shot by Walter Palmer, is indicative of the fact that many people are widening their circles of compassion to include animals.
Palmer reportedly hired a team to lure Cecil out of his protected sanctuary and blind him with a spotlight while Palmer shot Cecil with a high-powered crossbow and allowed the animal to suffer for nearly two days before he and his accomplices finally killed, skinned, and beheaded him. The future looks bleak for Cecil’s young cubs.
It would be more shocking—and alarming—if people weren’t outraged by this horrific crime. If these animals aren’t deserving of compassion and cries for justice, I’m not sure who is.
The fact that so many people are calling for harsh punishments for Palmer and his cronies shows that more and more people are starting to feel that every life is deserving of consideration and respect, and that we should seek to stop injustice, no matter who the victim is.
Jason Baker, director of campaigns, PETA Australia
Completely agree!!!