"For 15 years Rep. Carolyn Maloney of Manhattan has been attempting to bring two giant pandas to the United States, specifically New York. Maloney insists that the pandas will be very well cared for in the Big Apple, hoping the bears’ presence in the city warms the hearts of visitors and residents. Maloney has announced that she has, in writing, a promise that the first stages of transporting the pandas to New York are underway. Pandas are an endangered species; they are lax with breeding and are easily stressed. Pandas must not be put through undue stress and do not belong on display in New York.
Maloney recently returned from a two-week-long trip to China, where she visited nature preserves and spoke with officials of the country. While Maloney understands that pandas are not given to other countries freely, nor is the transaction carried lightly, she lacks empathy for what is truly right for the two pandas. Air travel is extremely stressful for the bears; not to mention, an enclosure in New York would fall short in comparison to the animals’ nature preserve in China.
The future of pandas is yet to be determined. It is important that the species is allowed to safely roam natural preservation land in China, surrounded by native land and familiar creatures. Pandas must not be bought and put on display. Keeping the bears’ best interest at heart is of utmost importance. Urge Representative Maloney to halt all panda dealings with China immediately and indefinitely."
