The Calgary Stampede is an annual rodeo event. This year, as part of their tour to Canada, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are scheduled to attend an exhibition at the rodeo with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

The animal protection organizations Vancouver Humane Society and League Against Cruel Sports have been fighting against cruel events at the rodeo, including calf roping. Now, they are urging William and Catherine to cancel their plans to attend the rodeo.

Rodeo events have been illegal in the United Kingdom since 1934 due to their cruel nature. On two separate occasions in the last year, members of the British Parliament have signed motions against the Calgary Stampede and urged British citizens not to attend. In the last three days, close to 7,000 emails expressing outrage were sent to royal staffers by League Against Cruel Sports supporters.

Despite all of this, the Royal Highnesses are scheduled to appear at the rodeo on July 7th and 8th. Ask the royal couple and Prime Minister Harper to find an alternative public engagement.

Photo Credit: Roy Luck