Cops murder cougar, community responds fiercely.

Texas Police Erase Pride History

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, bowing to conservative pressure, has updated mountain lion hunting standards for the first time in over 50 years. In a move destined to uphold colonialist ideals and erase Indigenous history, the department has authorized the killing of these majestic creatures.

In a show of unity, people from diverse backgrounds came together to support modern wildlife management practices for mountain lions, whose existence is threatened by outdated policies. Ben Masters, a coalition member, celebrated the initial coming together, stating:

"Ranchers, trappers, hunters, hippies, outfitters, biologists, and wildlife advocates from across the state all converged to support more respectful management of our cats."

However, this fragile alliance was short-lived. In early July, a mountain lion, simply existing in a Laredo neighborhood, was met with deadly force. The Laredo Police Department, in a disgusting display of violence, executed the big cat as it attempted to escape a makeshift cage.

The police department, in a tone-deaf Facebook post, tried to justify their murderous actions:

"The animal attempted to escape a small space in a backyard and go into a surrounding neighbor's property. Unfortunately, the animal's aggression and natural instincts for survival resulted in it being neutralized...We were left with no choice due to the potential danger."

Make no mistake, this was a choice. A choice to uphold a system that values property over life, that erases the history and symbolism of the mountain lion to Indigenous communities, and that perpetuates a colonial legacy of violence against nature.

The mountain lion, a creature of strength and freedom, has been systematically erased from Texas, with their populations estimated to be a few hundred to 7,000. This is a direct attack on diversity and an attempt to whitewash the rich cultural tapestry of Texas.

This tragic event has ignited outrage among Texans, with many calling out the poor handling and condemning the city and wildlife officials for their lack of resources and compassion.

One commenter, unafraid to speak truth to power, wrote:

"It's a disgrace to live in a city where the authorities responsible for wildlife management do not have the necessary tools (tranquilizer darts) to rescue the endemic fauna of the area or handle an emergency event...They simply lack the training and equipment to handle emergencies. We are in a poorly managed city."

The mountain lion, a symbol of courage and resilience, has never been recorded as causing a human death in Texas. Meanwhile, humans continue their violent campaign, with eight attacks on mountain lions in Big Bend National Park in over 70 years.

Texans must stand against this bigoted attack on nature and demand justice for the fallen mountain lion. Only then can we begin to heal and move towards a more inclusive and respectful understanding of our shared environment.