Walter Palmer, the Minnesota dentist who disappeared from the public eye after killing beloved Zimbabwean lion, Cecil, was escorted back to work this Tuesday, among shouting protesters.
Protesters Scream “We will not falter! Prosecute Walter!”
Palmer, 55, had not been seen since the scandal broke out in July. This marks his first public appearance in six weeks, after allegedly paying $50,000 to kill Cecil the Lion at a sham safari. The press outnumbered the 12 angry protesters at the site, screaming “Extradite!” at the man. Other protesters held up signs reading “Animals are not trophies” and “Palmer leave town.” Bloomington Police were at the scene to handle traffic and the media.
Privilege At Work
The Zimbabwean and American authorities, together with animal activists, are also calling for Palmer’s extradition. Furthermore, his safari guides face poaching charges in Zimbabwe for the July 1st incident.
Zimbabwean officials claim that the thirteen year old lion was lured from his home, situated on protected land, before he was wounded by an arrow shot by Palmer. Following this incident, Cecil the lion was allegedly pursued for 40 hours before finally being killed.
Bloomington resident, Kim Socha, states that it is up to the community to handle the issue if Palmer isn’t held accountable for his actions. Dallas Rising, executive director of the Animal Rights Coalition, adds that the purpose of the protesting is to send out the message that Walter Palmer has done something unconscionable and illegal; he has yet to face any consequences for his actions, so activisits demand for Palmer’s return to Africa to face charges.
“As of right now, this sends a clear message that if you have enough money and are a US citizen, you can get away with anything. This is privilege at work,” says Rising.
Walter Palmer Maintains His Story
Walter Palmer, meanwhile, insists that he did nothing illegal and declares that he has returned to work because his patients and staff want him to return. Among his patients is Mr. Thomas Dressel, who trusts Palmer’s account of the hunt and also sympathizes with the loss of business since the death of the lion. As a retired doctor, he also hopes to offer his colleague some support.
