On June 18th, we learned that the Los Angeles Superior Court denied our petition on behalf of Billy and Tina. The courts decision wrongly denies Billy and Tina the chance to have a full and fair hearing on whether their continued imprisonment violates their right to liberty. The court acknowledged the compelling evidence that Billy and Tina are autonomous, self-aware beings, but it failed to extend that fact to its logical conclusion: that Billy and Tina have a right to be free from unlawful confinement. The Nonhuman Rights Project will continue fighting for the elephants’ freedom and will announce our next steps soon.
Executive Director Christopher Berry shares his reflections on the Los Angeles Superior Court’s decision and what it means for Billy, Tina, and our continued fight for elephant rights in a new video.
Will you consider becoming a recurring contributor to the NhRP? Your donation will directly support the legal fight for the elephants’ freedom and our ongoing advocacy for nonhuman animals.