Ban "Dwarf Throwing" Events In Arizona

Recent signers:
Amber Dixon and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

What Is "Dwarf Throwing"?

Dwarf throwing events, also known as dwarf tossing or midget tossing, involve individuals with dwarfism being thrown for entertainment purposes. In these events, participants, often of average height, compete to throw a person with dwarfism as far as possible. Dwarf tossing gained popularity in some places as a form of entertainment in bars, clubs, or private events, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. 

To this day, dwarf throwing events have resulted in people with dwarfism suffering from life threatening injuries, paralyzation, and death. Although dwarf throwing events feature consenting little people, this kind of exploitation trickles down and affects unwilling participants, such as Martin Henderson, a man with dwarfism who was picked up outside a bar and thrown to the ground by a stranger. 

In Arizona, events are still held every year in different cities. This poses a risk for valley residents who do not engage in these events, but see increased levels of violence due to these events being permitted.

While I understand the importance of individual freedom and entertainment, there are instances where such activities can lead to significant harm, both physically and emotionally.

The Issue

Dwarf throwing, the act of using individuals with dwarfism as props in a form of entertainment, is currently legal in the majority of the United States. However, I am pleased to acknowledge that three states have already taken a stand against this practice by making it illegal. Today, we are urging our local, and national representatives to advocate for a nationwide ban on this degrading and harmful activity.

Dwarf throwing perpetuates harmful stereotypes, fosters discrimination, and puts the physical and mental well-being of individuals with dwarfism at risk. The inherent dangers and potential for exploitation associated with this practice necessitate governmental intervention to protect the rights and dignity of these individuals.

How to Help

Sign this petition! I am hoping with enough signatures, I can help local representatives craft legislation to protect our community.  

The Pledge

We, the undersigned, support the call for government oversight on dwarf throwing and advocate for a statewide ban on this degrading and harmful activity. We believe that such practices perpetuate harmful stereotypes, foster discrimination, and pose risks to the well-being of individuals with dwarfism. By signing this petition, we express our commitment to promoting inclusivity, respecting the rights of all citizens, and condemning activities that contribute to the marginalization of any group.

We understand that there are various pressing issues that demand your attention, but we believe that the prohibition of dwarf throwing is a matter of social justice and human rights. We kindly request you to consider the widespread support for this cause and take the necessary steps to initiate change on a larger level.

 

 

4,810

Recent signers:
Amber Dixon and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

What Is "Dwarf Throwing"?

Dwarf throwing events, also known as dwarf tossing or midget tossing, involve individuals with dwarfism being thrown for entertainment purposes. In these events, participants, often of average height, compete to throw a person with dwarfism as far as possible. Dwarf tossing gained popularity in some places as a form of entertainment in bars, clubs, or private events, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s. 

To this day, dwarf throwing events have resulted in people with dwarfism suffering from life threatening injuries, paralyzation, and death. Although dwarf throwing events feature consenting little people, this kind of exploitation trickles down and affects unwilling participants, such as Martin Henderson, a man with dwarfism who was picked up outside a bar and thrown to the ground by a stranger. 

In Arizona, events are still held every year in different cities. This poses a risk for valley residents who do not engage in these events, but see increased levels of violence due to these events being permitted.

While I understand the importance of individual freedom and entertainment, there are instances where such activities can lead to significant harm, both physically and emotionally.

The Issue

Dwarf throwing, the act of using individuals with dwarfism as props in a form of entertainment, is currently legal in the majority of the United States. However, I am pleased to acknowledge that three states have already taken a stand against this practice by making it illegal. Today, we are urging our local, and national representatives to advocate for a nationwide ban on this degrading and harmful activity.

Dwarf throwing perpetuates harmful stereotypes, fosters discrimination, and puts the physical and mental well-being of individuals with dwarfism at risk. The inherent dangers and potential for exploitation associated with this practice necessitate governmental intervention to protect the rights and dignity of these individuals.

How to Help

Sign this petition! I am hoping with enough signatures, I can help local representatives craft legislation to protect our community.  

The Pledge

We, the undersigned, support the call for government oversight on dwarf throwing and advocate for a statewide ban on this degrading and harmful activity. We believe that such practices perpetuate harmful stereotypes, foster discrimination, and pose risks to the well-being of individuals with dwarfism. By signing this petition, we express our commitment to promoting inclusivity, respecting the rights of all citizens, and condemning activities that contribute to the marginalization of any group.

We understand that there are various pressing issues that demand your attention, but we believe that the prohibition of dwarf throwing is a matter of social justice and human rights. We kindly request you to consider the widespread support for this cause and take the necessary steps to initiate change on a larger level.

 

 

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Petition created on February 3, 2024