Spanish Dwarf Bullfighters Ignite Controversy as they Thrill French Fans Amidst EU Discrimination Concerns

Published 08/06/2023, 1:42 PM EDT

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You must have heard of the age-old tradition of bullfighting in Spain. But have you heard of dwarf bullfighting? Yes, dwarf bullfighting has been going on in Spain and other parts of Central Europe parallelly for quite a long time. However, a recent order passed by the Spanish parliament prohibited dwarf bullfighting in the country.

Despite that, people have been finding new ways to keep the fun going. But that’s not the only law they have broken. Today we bring you the news about some of the recent dwarf bullfighting which has defied Spanish and EU laws.

A show like no other

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Last Thursday, there was an extraordinary spectacle called “Bullfighting Fun” organized in the village of Tethieu near the Spanish border in France. The performing troupe sold out a 650-seat arena, thrilling the audience with sketches and skits featuring small cows. Reports suggest people laughed through the air and applauded the diminutive bullfighters as they showcased their remarkable talent and camaraderie.

However, despite the overwhelming love and appreciation from the French audience, these Spanish dwarf bullfighters faced an unexpected hurdle back in their homeland. In April, Spain’s parliament passed a bill banning dwarf bullfighting performances.

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They took this decision after calling these acts as mockery and derision of Spanish culture. For this, the Spanish legislators cited Article 21 of the EU’s Charter of Fundamental Rights, which addresses discrimination based on genetic features.

The dwarfs’ outrage against the decision

The ban left the 11-person troupe deeply disheartened, feeling unheard and unfairly targeted. Daniel Calderon, their leader, expressed his frustration. He says, “Our show is all about comedy and parody, without any violence or harm.” He believes that dwarfism has been used as a pretext to justify the ban, reflecting the parliament’s dislike for bullfighting.

After being banned in their homeland, the troupe found refuge in France, where their performances continue to delight audiences. However, not everyone in France is entirely in favor of their shows.

Violette Viannay, president of the “French Little People’s Association,” voiced her concerns about such performances. She has said, “These performances might hinder the integration of people with dwarfism into mainstream society.”

Watch this story – Spotlight on the Most Victorious Bull Riders in PBR History

The tradition of Dwarf Bullfighting

Dwarf bullfighting in Spain has a long-standing tradition. Here dwarf performers dress as clowns or firefighters and playfully engage with bulls without harming them. These events are meant to be humorous and light-hearted, creating a unique form of entertainment that has been part of the cultural landscape for decades. Sadly, its popularity has decreased over time.

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via Imago

Further, the Spanish parliament’s decision to align with EU directives on discrimination against disabled people has both supporters and opponents. While disability rights groups applauded the ban, arguing that it combats exploitation and mockery, the dwarf bullfighters and their supporters perceive it as an attack on their livelihood and freedom to perform.

Nevertheless, the question arises that what will happen to these dwarves. The people who have been doing this from a young age and have made this their livelihood, what will they do now?  As we witness their journey, we ponder on the delicate balance between safeguarding against discrimination and preserving cultural traditions.

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So, what’s your take on this? Is the Spanish parliament right in its banning of dwarf bullfighting? Or there should be another way to control this sport? Let us know your thoughts.

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Written by:

Kumar Rohan

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Kumar Rohan is a writer at EssentiallySports who covers Sports Viral Moments. He is a sports journalist with a knack for writing. His sports expertise comes in handy when he breaks down events skilfully, in his own style.
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Edited by:

Priyadarshini Ajay