September 24, 2024 – Today legendary artist Cher endorsed Bill S-15, government legislation to protect captive elephants and great apes in Canada. Cher announced her support via X. “Elephants deserve freedom! With Dr. Jane Goodall, I endorse Canada’s Bill S-15, proposing world’s first law to end elephant captivity,” said Cher. “Ask Canada’s Parliament to pass Bill S-15 and help Canada set the example for the rest of the world.”

Senator Marty Klyne is the independent Senate sponsor of Bill S-15, which would implement a government election promise and mandate letter commitment to Canadians to legislate protection for captive wildlife.

“I’m thrilled by Cher’s endorsement of an elephant captivity ban in Canada. No one can turn back time on what science tells us about these magnificent creatures,” said Senator Klyne, referencing Cher’s hit single. “Elephants belong in the wild, not in captivity in Canada.”

25 captive elephants live in Canada at four locations. Elephants have been bred and offered for sale from Canada, including transactions that would break up mother-daughter pairs, who normally stay together for life. Elephants have also been used in circus-style shows and for rides in Ontario.

“Bill S-15 can and should achieve the world’s first nationally legislated phase-out of elephant captivity, as recommended by independent scientists,” said Senator Klyne.

Cher previously helped rescue a lone elephant for relocation to a sanctuary in Cambodia.

Bill S-15 received the support of the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Committee in its vote in June. It is anticipated that the Senate will commence its debate on the Committee’s report this week, including on its recommendation to add a “Noah Clause” to the bill. Named for Noah’s Ark, the clause would establish a mechanism to possibly protect additional wild species in the future, such as big cats. Over 7,000 lions, tigers, and leopards are estimated to be privately owned in Canada.

Senator Klyne is a senator from Saskatchewan and a member of the Progressive Senate Group.

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For further information, please contact:

Marty McKendry
Office of Senator Marty Klyne
marty2.mckendry@sen.parl.gc.ca
613-327-667