4/29/26 Okha the elephant at Naja Shrine Circus

If you love elephants, Okha’s story is devastating.

Taken from the wild in 1970, Okha has spent decades trapped in circus life. She was subjected to the cruelty of abusive elephant training, forced to travel thousands of miles, and made to perform stupid tricks year after year.

Until 2022, Okha had the comfort of her elephant friends Kosti and Megue. But they were relocated to other facilities, leaving Okha alone — without the much-needed companionship of another elephant.

"Cute” images of elephants standing on balls appear on everything from baby clothes to greeting cards. But for Okha, there was nothing cute about it. She was forced to perform this dangerous, unnatural trick in real life — an act that turned her pain and fear into entertainment.

Despite no longer being able to perform the ball trick or many others, her exploitation sadly continues. Her owner, Brian Franzen, rents her out to circuses and events whenever possible, forcing elderly Okha to give rides and do menial stunts in the circus ring.

Okha's suffering continues this weekend where she will be subjected to more exploitation at the Naja Shrine Circus in South Dakota. 

We MUST continue to act for Okha. Please sign & share widely