A social media post circulating in Colombia is promoting what appears to be the first “Therian” community in Antioquia, sparking debate and drawing a response from the Mayor of Medellín. The announcement, inviting people to “unleash the animal within,” calls for a gathering in Rionegro, Antioquia, and advertises a “1st Therian Jump Contest.”
The promotional image, widely shared online, depicts young people wearing animal masks – foxes and wolves are prominent – performing acrobatic movements in a natural setting. The aesthetic is colorful and alludes to activities known as “quadrobics,” where participants mimic animal locomotion using arms and legs.
“Therians” identify as individuals who feel a deep emotional, spiritual, or psychological connection to a non-human animal, considering it a part of their identity. Even as some express this identity through accessories like masks and tails, proponents emphasize that it is a form of self-identification, not a costume or game. The phenomenon has gained visibility in countries like Argentina and spread through platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X, with videos showing young people engaging in physical activities that emulate animal behavior.
The proposed event, scheduled for Tuesday, February 17th, at 6:00 p.m. In front of the San Nicolás Shopping Center in Rionegro, has prompted a reaction from Medellín Mayor Federico Gutiérrez. In a post on X, Gutiérrez expressed concern that such groups might seek recognition and respect as minorities while potentially infringing on the rights of others. His statement drew both support and criticism, with some users defending the right to self-expression and others raising concerns about potential disruptions to public order, referencing reports of incidents involving “therians” in other countries.
The Rionegro municipal government has confirmed receiving the event announcement, including an audio recording of someone barking, but stated it has no knowledge of the organizers and is not involved in the event. As of Wednesday, February 18th, the authenticity of the event remains unconfirmed, and it is unclear whether it will proceed or if the post is a hoax.
The debate in Antioquia centers on the limits of free expression, with members of the “therian” community asserting their right to exist openly despite the controversy. Questions remain regarding the event’s organization and whether it will be allowed to seize place.
The Rionegro municipal government has stated it is not organizing the event and is unaware of who is. A “therian” is defined as a person who claims to identify deeply with a non-human animal. There is currently no official verification of the event’s authenticity.
