We, the undersigned, respectfully urge the Government of Mexico to take decisive action to end the captivity and exploitation of manatees across the country.

Mexico is home to the Antillean manatee - an endangered subspecies that belongs in rivers, estuaries, and coastal waters, not in enclosures. Yet these gentle beings are still held in marine parks like Dolphin Discovery, where they are used in swim-with experiences and close-contact interactions.

Manatees are slow-moving, highly sensitive individuals who naturally travel long distances and spend most of their time grazing. In captivity, their freedom of movement, choice of companionship, and access to natural habitat are lost.

Captivity compromises both their welfare and their dignity. These individuals, already under threat from habitat loss, pollution, and watercraft collisions, should not also be subject to commercial exploitation.

Mexico has an opportunity to lead by recognising that wild animals are not entertainment. True conservation does not involve confining sentient beings for display or interaction.

We respectfully ask the Mexican government to:

1. Ban the captivity and public display of manatees in marine parks and entertainment facilities.  

2. Prohibit swim-with-manatee programmes, which place animals under prolonged stress and compromise their autonomy.  

3. Ban breeding and trade of captive manatees for commercial purposes.  

4. Support the retirement of captive manatees to coastal sanctuaries or rewilding programmes, where appropriate.  

5. Formally include sirenians in national animal protection laws, recognising their ecological role and sentience.

This is Mexico’s chance to be a global leader in marine animal protection. By ending manatee captivity, the country can align with growing international awareness that wild animals do not belong in tanks.