Stuntman and Comedian Steve-O Joins Animal Advocates in Calling for Release of Lucy the Elephant
For Immediate Release:
March 10, 2011
Contact:
Shakira Croce 202-483-7382
Edmonton, Alta. -- Joined by PETA's "elephant" and protesters waving signs reading, "We ♥ Lucy" and "Free Lucy," Steve-O will lead a protest outside Edmonton's Valley Zoo on Friday. The Jackass star will call for Lucy—the 35-year-old Asian elephant being kept in solitary confinement in a tiny stall at the zoo—to be released to a sanctuary in a warmer climate.
When: Friday, March 11, 12 noon
Where: Valley Zoo, 13315 Buena Vista Rd., Edmonton
"I don't understand how this zoo can be allowed to keep Lucy after so many legitimate experts have confirmed that the conditions they have her in are unacceptable," says Steve-O."This is a no-brainer—Lucy should be sent to a sanctuary."
Lucy suffers from arthritis and chronic foot problems—both of which are leading reasons for euthanasia among captive elephants. She also suffers from respiratory problems and has exhibited behaviour that indicates severe psychological distress. Edmonton's cold climate is detrimental to Lucy's health, and experts agree that she must be moved to a warm-weather sanctuary, where she could enjoy the company of other elephants and the freedom to roam acres of lush land.
Steve-O, who will be performing March 10–12 at the Comic Strip in Edmonton, joins a growing list of celebrities—including Bob Barker, Georges Laraque, and William Shatner—who have called for Lucy's release.
For more information, please visit SaveLucy.ca or PETA.org.