On Wednesday, November 3rd, Fulton County commissioners will vote on an ordinance introduced by Commissioner Robert Pitts to ban the use of elephant bullhooks. If passed, the ordinance will lay the foundation for other cities to follow. Cruel circuses will no longer be legal in Atlanta.

Bullhooks are devices designed to force elephants to perform tricks by hooking and beating them until they obey. While the circus defends the use of such abuse stating that bullhooks are no different than using a leash for a dog, the bleeding wounds and bruises of the elephants tormented tell a much different story.

Photo credit: PETA