I grew up visiting Raja, the Asian Elephant at our St. Louis zoo. I watched him grow and evolve while experiencing my own life changes – starting kindergarten, adopting my own pup named Raja. His presence has been a constant in my life, a symbol of our rich local culture.

Transferring Raja to Toledo is not just re-routing an animal's geographical location; it disrupts him from his familiar surroundings, places him somewhere unfamiliar, and above all, it separates him from the community he's been a part of. According to a research report by Applied Animal Behaviour Science, animals benefit greatly from stability and familiar routines (Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 2007). This isn't simply about an elephant, but about a cherished member of our community.

However, to protect Raja and ensure he stays in St. Louis, we need your help. Come together with us, let's show city officials that our community cares for Raja. Sign this petition to keep our treasured Raja in the community he knows and loves, where he truly belongs. Let's ensure that Raja stays where we have celebrated milestones together; in the heart of St. Louis.