Protesters represent many

IN response to Lyall Cocks (NZ Rodeo Cowboy Association) comments on protesters at rodeos (ODT 2.1.21), I wish to assure Mr Cocks the animal rights protesters seen at rodeos are representing more than a handful of militant vegans.

I attended rodeos in the past to appreciate the equestrian skill of events such as barrel racing. As a horse woman I was never comfortable with the bucking events as I knew that horses only ever buck out of fear and pain and I imagine the same goes for bulls.

There was also the contradiction of the roping events which, while they demonstrate the deep connection the cowboy has with their horse, sadly this does not extend to roping the calf or steer.

After a while I decided rodeos were not kind and not something I wanted to be a part of, so I stopped attending. I am grateful to those brave protesters who are willing to withstand the threats and abuse for standing up for the voiceless animal victims. They also stand for people like myself and therefore a much larger crosssection of the public than Mr Cocks knows.

Jenny Aimers, Port Chalmers

[Abridged]