The letter coincides with a renewed political push in Spain, where 52 Members of Parliament have reintroduced the “No Es Mi Cultura” (“It’s Not My Culture”) citizens’ legislative initiative to Congress. The proposal aims to strip bullfighting of its protected cultural heritage status following a failed vote in 2025, when Sánchez’s ruling party abstained. Supported by extensive public backing, the movement represents the most signed citizens’ initiative in Spain over the last decade.
Morrissey, who previously released the track “The Bullfighter Dies” and campaigned alongside PETA to ask Pope Francis to condemn church-blessed bullfights, emphasized that animal suffering should never be defended as heritage. In his letter, the singer argued that a terrified animal dying in an arena after being stabbed cannot be excused under the guise of culture.
PETA highlighted the brutal nature of bullfighting, detailing how bulls suffer significant blood loss from lances and banderillas before matadors attempt a final kill. The animal protection organization noted that bulls are often still conscious when dragged from the arena, emphasizing their core principle that animals are not ours to use for entertainment or abuse.
By leveraging his platform during his Spanish tour dates, Morrissey hopes to push lawmakers toward a definitive vote against the practice. With public support for the citizens’ initiative continuing to grow, activists and fans alike are watching closely to see whether the Spanish government will act to end protected status for bullfighting across the country.
