Amidst the controversy of SeaWorld and Blackfish and the ongoing pressure on animal abuse for entertainment purposes, I was surprised this would go through the ropes to make it to the spring festival. There are numerous protests and issues with the usage of creatures for performance. I don't find it appropriate or useful for UMBC's funds.

We have two popular artists: Capitol Cities and A Great Big World. We have tons of fun and student organized events all the time. Taking away just this one will not harm the success of Quadmania. I saw no push from university aged students for something like elephant rides. It costs the organization more money and we shouldn't be promoting the continued usage and profit of circuses and wild animal entertainment. Elephants are enormous amazing creatures. They don't belong on our Maryland campus quad.

I beg UMBC and SEB to remove this event from its lineup for financial and humanity purposes. Thank you.