13th Amendment, Can Animals Use Its Protection Too?

McKenzie Fink


Article 2


PETA lawsuit seeks to expand animal rights


http://www.nctimes.com/news/national/article_fbca16a3-7432-5b46-aca2-45d651e2959d.html?mode=story


Are killer whales at SeaWorld getting their 13th amendment violated? And can the 13th Amendment apply to animals too?


This whole article is about how people for the Ethical Treatment of Animals are accusing SeaWorld of not providing their preforming whales in conditions that tread on their 13th Amendment. The case is resting on the fact that the 13th Amendment of prohibiting slavery and involuntary servitude does not technically say that it only applies to humans. SeaWorld does not believe that these accusations will uphold in court because they are one of "the world's most respected zoological institutions" and "there is no higher priority than the welfare of the animals entrusted into our care and no facility sets higher standards...". They also state that there are laws and regulations that SeaWorld must abide by and that the "orcas' performances help give the public a better appreciation and understanding of these animals.". Prosecutors say that SeaWorld's profit,"By any definition, these orcas are slaves - kidnapped from their homes, kept confined, denied everything that's natural to them and forced to perform tricks for SeaWorld's profit.". The trial was filed on October 26, 2011.


This connects what we are studying in class for many reasons. One reason is that we are studying the Bill of Rights and this case involves the 13th amendment to the Constitution. Another reason is that we have been learning how the Bill of Rights keeps us protected from government abuse and this case is a perfect example. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals are trying to protect the whales from abuse. The Bill of Rights makes sure that the government is punished if it violates a right or protection. This too is demonstrated in the case because PETA is trying to punish the people who are abusing the rights and protections of living things.


This connects to my life as a citizen for a couple of reasons. It mainly connects to my life because every citizen must be sure that if the government, or any power, violates your rights, they can be punished. This is a case that is not as urgent as others but it still causes alarm that people may be easily violating the rights of these poor animals. The other reason it connects to me as a citizen is because I have the freedom to speak my opinion about the case. The right to freedom of speech is listed in my first amendment. 


I personally don't believe that SeaWorld is not at least paying compensation to the whales  a good environment and kind trainers."SeaWorld is among the world's most respected zoological institutions," they said. "There is no higher priority than the welfare of the animals entrusted to our care and no facility sets higher standards in husbandry, veterinary care and enrichment." I do believe that SeaWorld is taking good care of their animals not only because of the laws and regulations they must abide by, but they have always been famous for treating their animals with care. I hope, and am pretty sure, that the case will not follow through and stop SeaWorld from bringing awareness to these endangered animals in a fun way everyone can love.