The Battle Begins at Padres Stadium Against a Rodeo Ban in San Diego

The San Diego City Council will face a decision soon led by one of their own, whether or not to ban any future rodeo from taking place inside the Padres Statium at Petco Park or to allow rodeos to continue inside city limits.

Those claiming to be 'animal rights' activists are pushing with full force against any and all rodeos within the City of San Diego, despite sold-out crowds showing up in support and an abundance of feedback showing San Diegans feel otherwise.

A sold-out crowd inside the Padres Stadium at Petco Park for the inaugural San Diego Rodeo.

Rob Riingen Photography

San Diego City Councilman Kent Lee announced Thursday he will introduce an ordinance banning rodeos in San Diego, citing animal cruelty.

Thursday afternoon, the Rodeo Alliance Committee, including tribal leaders, Welfare Consultant Jed Pugsley, and Chairman of the Charro Coalition of San Diego Ramon Jara, sent a statement on the proposed ban to SI Rodeo.

"Our collective coalition is disappointed with today's announcement. We view this as a direct attack against our cultural heritage and indigenous traditions. We are prepared and determined to mobilize against this bad policy decision, which is out of touch with our community's values."

The proposal to ban rodeos within the city limits will be introduced to the Land Use and Housing Committee, which Councilmember Lee chairs.

"Entertainment is not a justification for cruelty toward animals," Councilmember Lee stated. "Rodeos, with their common use of inhumane tools, perpetuate cruelty rather than genuine entertainment."

Livestock and Welfare Consultant Jed Pugsley had voiced his concerns before the rodeo took place over the weekend at Petco Park, knowing they were headed into a heated area. He explained that those in the Western industry are the biggest proponents of animal welfare.

"I think categorizing anyone involved in rodeo as an 'animal abuser' is a slap in the face," Pugsley stated.

The committee expects to know more about the proposed ban sometime this spring. This is a developing story. Follow SI Rodeo for updates.