May 21, 2008 12:19 by
Gene
Bullied by Mayor Daley, the Chicago City Council recently
repealed a humane law that was enacted in 2006 to prohibit the sale of foie
gras. The law passed after
two committee hearings, during which opponents and proponents were allowed to
express their views and make their case, and council members had the
opportunity to hear from various expert witnesses. After months of careful
deliberation, council members voted overwhelmingly to prohibit the cruelty of
foie gras. In contrast, the repeal occurred quickly and by surprise, with no
discussion or deliberation. When opponents tried to speak, they were not allowed.
This episode is a result of old time bullying politics at the behest of
gluttonous special interests. The shameful behavior of Mayor Daley and his
cronies conflict with basic humane and civic values, which respect animal
welfare and the democratic process. The battle wages on…