WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, November 12, 2021 — American Humane, the country’s first national humane organization, today released the following statement in response to Expedia’s decision regarding tickets to zoological institutions:
As the world’s leading humane organization, one that is firmly rooted in science and has been behind virtually every major advance in the humane field for the past 145 years, we are disappointed in Expedia’s decision to stop selling tickets to certified and accredited zoological institutions that provide educational interactions with cetaceans. These interactions provide unique learning opportunities for the public and are often the building blocks for life-long support and commitment to these remarkable animals.
American Humane CertifiedTM institutions adhere to science-based welfare standards and protocols, which are verified through independent audits. These standards are designed to help ensure the well-being of animals. Expedia’s actions not only ignore well-documented scientific evidence that cetaceans thrive in certified marine environments but also does a disservice to the more than 700 million people globally who visit zoological institutions annually and learn to love and protect what they see.
About American Humane
American Humane is the country’s first national humane organization. For more than 100 years, American Humane has been at the forefront of the conservation movement. The long and storied history of fighting to preserve precious species includes working to save the Bald Eagle from extinction, supporting legislation like the Endangered Species Act and advocating against the needless slaughter of wild animals.
Most recently, American Humane launched its Global Humane program, which is dedicated to helping preserve disappearing species by ensuring high, science-based standards of welfare for the millions of animals in the world’s zoos, aquariums and conservation centers that are serving as arks of hope for rare and endangered creatures.
American Humane is committed to ensuring the safety, welfare and well-being of animals. For more information, or to support our work, please visit www.americanhumane.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
