(PCM) There have been quite a few times over the years that the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been plagued with controversy and this year animal rights activists plan to protest the parade due to the inclusion of a SeaWorld themed float and Shamu the killer whale balloon.
The activists plan to line the streets of the parade route in protest over the float in light of accusations that were put forth in the recent documentary film “Blackfish” which accuses theme parks of poor treatment of their killer whales, which can eventually lead to aggression in the species.
Macy’s has always held strong to the tradition of staying out of politics and the company released the following statement in regards to the controversy. “The parade has never taken on, promoted or otherwise engaged in social commentary, political debate or other forms of advocacy”.
SeaWorld has claimed that the accusations put forth in the documentary film have no basis and the people who care for the animals in their parks are dedicated to the health and well-being of each and every animal.
No word on just how PETA plans to protest the parade, but they have sent Macy’s over 80,000 emails from animal rights supporters demanding that the company remove the float.
Singer Joan Jett was scheduled to appear on the float with her band The Blackhearts, but in light of the controversy she has been moved to another parade float that has yet to be announced. The year’s parade will also feature entertainers Carrie Underwood, Jimmy Fallon, the Radio City Rockettes, and cast members from the A&E hit series “Ducky Dynasty.