"Into the Wild" (Een beestenbende)
April 6, 2024
On Curaçao, we've reached a point where we must close down the animal shelter due to a lack of financial resources. This comes at a time when tourism is crucial to our economy, yet the entire island is overrun by stray dogs, whose numbers seem to be increasing unchecked. It's baffling, especially considering the recent enactment of animal welfare laws. I can't make sense of it.
It reminds me of when we finally raised the minimum wage, only to realize that the government had forgotten to increase the salaries of its employees. It begs the question: what value does a law hold if it's not enforced correctly?
It's a literal jungle, resembling a lawless territory where basic rights are overlooked. As a society, we must confront this reality and demand accountability from our leaders. Our collective silence only perpetuates the chaos.
As we navigate these challenges, we must remember that dissent is not just a right but a responsibility. We must speak out against injustice and advocate for change. Only then can we ensure that our laws are not just words on paper but meaningful tools for creating a more just and humane and animal society.
Let us be guided by compassion and empathy in the face of adversity. Let us work together to build a world where humans and animals can thrive, free from neglect and cruelty. After all, true democracy requires not only dissent but also action.
Miguel Goede