Lawsuit and Celebrity Backlash Over Billy and Tina’s Tulsa Zoo Move.
On May 23, 2025, the Los Angeles Zoo’s overnight transfer of elephants Billy and Tina to the Tulsa Zoo sparked immediate outrage among animal rights groups.
The decision, made without prior public notice, has led to widespread condemnation from legal experts, lawmakers, and celebrities, all calling for the elephants to be moved to a sanctuary instead of another zoo.
High-profile figures such as Cher, Kim Basinger, Lily Tomlin, and Bill Maher have voiced their opposition, joining animal rights activists who argue that Billy and Tina deserve better than life in captivity.
The controversy continues to grow, with critics questioning why the zoo didn’t opt for sanctuary care rather than transferring the elephants to an overcrowded facility.
Celebrity Backlash from High-Profile Voices
Cher, Basinger, Tomlin, and Maher are among those leading the charge. They signed a letter urging Mayor Karen Bass to step in and prevent the transfer, demanding that Billy and Tina be sent to a sanctuary instead.
Actress Alicia Silverstone has been particularly vocal, rallying her followers on social media to push for the elephants’ release. Her post quickly went viral, further amplifying the voices of those who feel the transfer is both unethical and unnecessary.
LA! Please call to help Free Billy and Tina 🐘💙 @KarenBassLA @MayorOfLA pic.twitter.com/LTBJvaj1uq
— Alicia Silverstone (@AliciaSilv) May 21, 2025
“I don’t understand how this can still be happening,” Silverstone said in a Facebook post, sharing an In Defense of Animals graphic urging people to call the mayor.
Her message to the public is clear: Billy and Tina belong in a sanctuary, not a zoo. And she’s not alone. Public outcry continues to grow as more celebrities add their names to the list of people demanding change.
The Nonhuman Rights Project's Groundbreaking Lawsuit
The Nonhuman Rights Project has filed a groundbreaking lawsuit seeking a habeas corpus hearing and legal personhood for Billy and Tina.
This case represents a significant step in the growing movement to grant legal rights to animals, particularly elephants, arguing that as sentient beings, they deserve the same protections from harm and freedom as humans.
Marilyn Kroplick, M.D., President and CEO of In Defense of Animals, condemned the transfer, stating, “All zoos cause elephants to suffer brain damage and lifetimes of deprivation. Only sanctuaries offer healing from zoo abuse.”
Her statement underscores the broader fight for animal welfare, emphasizing the need to respect the autonomy and dignity of these creatures.
The Ethics of Captivity: Why This Move is Dangerous for the Elephants
The animal rights groups are questioning the practice of confining elephants to small enclosures, regardless of how "improved" they may appear.
The Tulsa Zoo, named one of the "10 Worst Zoos for Elephants" in 2022, has faced criticism for overcrowded conditions and its failure to meaningfully enhance the lives of its animals.
Critics argue that after decades of captivity at the Los Angeles Zoo, Billy and Tina deserve sanctuary care, not another cramped enclosure.
“Elephants require vast spaces to roam, not confined spaces where they cannot exhibit natural behaviors,” said Courtney Scott, Elephant Consultant for In Defense of Animals. “This transfer is more than a poor decision; it’s a disregard for the suffering these elephants have already endured.”
Know Your Rights and Advocate for Change
If you’re concerned about the treatment of elephants or any animals in captivity, there are ways you can make a difference.
Supporting legal challenges, like the one filed by the Nonhuman Rights Project, is one way to stand up for animals who deserve more legal protections.
As the fight for Billy and Tina’s freedom continues, activists and legal experts are urging for stronger animal rights legislation to provide sanctuary for captive elephants, as well as other animals who face similar suffering.
For concerned citizens, speaking out on social media and contacting local government officials has proven to be an effective way to influence change.
The public’s voice can be a powerful tool, especially when used to demand transparency from zoos and other institutions that hold animals in captivity.
Investigating Misuse of Public Funds
As the controversy over the elephants' transfer intensifies, financial concerns have surfaced. Allegations of misused public funds have been leveled against the Los Angeles Zoo’s leadership, including a reported $1.7 million diversion for office renovations, international travel, and private events.
This raises questions about the zoo’s financial integrity and its commitment to the ethical treatment of animals.
“It’s a slap in the face to the public,” said Judie Mancuso, founder of Social Compassion in Legislation. “While millions are being wasted, elephants like Billy and Tina are subjected to more years of suffering. It's time for transparency.”
As the fight for Billy and Tina’s freedom intensifies, legal experts, lawmakers, and activists are calling for immediate transparency from the zoo and the city of Los Angeles.
The lack of public input and transparency in this process is deeply troubling. “When you are proud of your actions, you don’t hide them in the dark of night,” said Los Angeles City Councilmember Bob Blumenfield, criticizing the zoo for blindsiding the public with the move.
Over 21,000 emails have been sent to Mayor Bass, and more than 18,000 messages have been directed to zoo officials.
How You Can Make a Difference
If you believe Billy and Tina deserve a better life, here’s how you can help. Reach out to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and your local city council members, urging them to retire the elephants to a sanctuary where they can live out their days in peace, free from captivity.
Supporting organizations like In Defense of Animals and the Nonhuman Rights Project can also help push the movement forward, ensuring that the elephants' plight receives the attention it deserves.
Spreading awareness on social media is another effective way to rally support for these elephants, encouraging others to take action and get involved.
The more voices that join the conversation, the louder the message will be, and the greater the chances that Billy and Tina will be granted the sanctuary they deserve.
People Also Ask
Why are Billy and Tina being moved to the Tulsa Zoo?
Billy and Tina, two elephants from the Los Angeles Zoo, were transferred overnight to the Tulsa Zoo, sparking controversy due to concerns over their treatment and living conditions. Critics argue that the move is detrimental to the elephants' welfare, with many calling for their release to a sanctuary instead.
What is the Nonhuman Rights Project's lawsuit about?
The Nonhuman Rights Project has filed a historic lawsuit seeking legal personhood and a habeas corpus hearing for Billy and Tina, advocating for their freedom and protection from further harm. The lawsuit is part of a larger movement to grant legal rights to animals, particularly elephants.
Why is the Tulsa Zoo controversial?
The Tulsa Zoo has faced significant criticism, including being named one of the "10 Worst Zoos for Elephants" in 2022. Critics argue that the zoo’s overcrowded conditions and failure to provide adequate space or enrichment for its elephants make it an unsuitable environment for animals like Billy and Tina.
What are the ethical concerns with keeping elephants in captivity?
Elephants, being large, intelligent, and social animals, require vast spaces to roam and natural environments to thrive. Critics argue that zoos, even with improved enclosures, still fail to meet these needs, leading to physical and psychological harm for elephants. Sanctuaries, where elephants can live in more natural conditions, are seen as a more humane alternative.
How can I help Billy and Tina?
You can help by signing petitions, contacting local officials, and supporting animal rights organizations like In Defense of Animals and the Nonhuman Rights Project. Advocating for the release of Billy and Tina to a sanctuary can make a significant impact on their future.
