This footage was filmed and produced 17 February 2024.

In a bold and passionate display of animal rights advocacy, a PETA member disrupted the prestigious Nobility Ball at the Sharon Shrine temple last night, condemning the ongoing exploitation of elephants and other wild animals in circus shows. The protest targeted the Sharon Shrine Circus, one of the few remaining venues that perpetuate the outdated practice of using wild animals for entertainment purposes.

The Sharon Shriners' collaboration with cruelty-tainted exhibitors like Carson & Barnes Circus, known for numerous violations of the Animal Welfare Act and abusive training methods involving bullhooks, has drawn strong criticism from animal welfare activists. The protester's message echoed the sentiment that wild animals deserve freedom and respect, not confinement, abuse, and exploitation for human amusement.

"PETA is urging the Sharon Shriners to discontinue their support for animal cruelty in the circus industry and follow the lead of other Shrines that have already ended their animal shows," stated Tracy Reiman, PETA's Executive Vice President.

Despite claims that Shrine circus attendance benefits children, the protester highlighted that ticket sales primarily contribute to the club's operational costs rather than charitable initiatives. The demonstration underscored a growing call for ethical treatment of animals and a shift towards alternative forms of entertainment that do not rely on the exploitation of sentient beings.