Take Action
Your Voice Has Power. Use It.
Signing the petition is just the beginning. Here are the most effective ways to push for real change — from contacting your representatives to getting a local ban passed in your city.
Contact Your Representatives
Elected officials respond to constituent pressure. A phone call or personal letter carries far more weight than a form email. Find your state and federal representatives and tell them you want legislation to ban rodeo events that cause documented animal suffering.
Share the Facts
Most people who attend rodeos have never seen the research. Sharing credible, sourced information — not graphic imagery — is one of the most effective ways to shift public opinion. Post a link to our Facts page, share a statistic, or start a conversation.
Sign and Share the Petition
If you haven't signed yet, add your name now. Then share the petition link with friends, family, and your social networks. Every signature is a data point legislators can't ignore — and every share multiplies your impact.
Speak at Your City Council
This is one of the most powerful things you can do. Cities and counties have the authority to ban rodeo events independently of state or federal law — and local ordinances have already succeeded in Pittsburgh, PA and multiple California cities. You don't need to be a lawyer or a lobbyist. You need three minutes and the facts.
Find a Council Member to Champion the Ordinance
A ban doesn't pass on its own — it needs a council member willing to introduce and sponsor the ordinance. Research your local council members, identify who has a record on animal welfare or public health issues, and reach out directly. A personal meeting, a well-prepared packet of evidence, and a clear ask can be the difference between a conversation and a vote.
How to Get a Local Ban Passed
A Step-by-Step Guide to Your City Council
Local bans are the most achievable near-term victory. Here is exactly how to make it happen in your city.
Research your city's rodeo events
Find out which rodeos operate in or near your city, how often they occur, and whether they use city-owned venues or permits. Public records requests (FOIA) can surface permit applications and venue contracts.
Identify your council member
Look up who represents your district on the city council. Check their voting record and public statements on animal welfare, public health, or community standards. These are your natural allies.
Request a meeting
Email or call their office and ask for a 15-minute constituent meeting. Bring a one-page summary of the evidence, a list of cities that have already passed bans, and a draft ordinance if possible. Keep it concrete and local.
Sign up for public comment
Most city councils hold public comment periods at every regular meeting. You can typically sign up the day of. Prepare a 2–3 minute statement: who you are, what you're asking for, and one or two key facts. Bring others to speak alongside you.
Build a coalition
Connect with local veterinarians, animal shelters, humane societies, and faith communities. A diverse coalition of voices — not just activists — is far more persuasive to elected officials than a single-issue group.
Follow up and sustain pressure
Change rarely happens after one meeting. Follow up with your council member after every interaction. Bring new signatories to each council meeting. Document your progress and share it publicly to build momentum.
Talking Points for Social Media
Not sure what to say? Use these fact-based messages to start conversations online.
Short post
There are ZERO federal laws protecting animals in rodeos. The Animal Welfare Act explicitly excludes them. That needs to change. #RodeoFacts #AnimalWelfare
Conversation starter
Rodeo animals don't buck because they're spirited — they buck because flank straps are tied tightly around their abdomens to cause pain. That's not tradition. That's cruelty. Learn more at RodeoFacts.org
Statistic share
Veterinary studies show cortisol levels in rodeo animals run up to 3× higher than baseline — consistent with acute pain responses. The UK banned rodeos in 1934. The US still has no federal protections.
Organizations Doing This Work
These groups are on the front lines of rodeo reform and animal welfare advocacy. Consider supporting their work.
Animal Protection Institute
Research and policy advocacy on animal welfare in entertainment.
SHARK (Showing Animals Respect and Kindness)
Investigative documentation of animal cruelty at rodeos and other events.
The Humane Society of the United States
National advocacy including campaigns against rodeo cruelty.
Animal Legal Defense Fund
Legal advocacy to strengthen and enforce animal protection laws.
Start With the Petition
If you only do one thing today, make it this. Your signature joins thousands of others being presented to legislators across the country.