On today’s episode of animals loose in New York City: a peacock!

Happening in the World: In a historic reform, Pope Francis has allowed women to vote at an influential global meeting of bishops in October. Previously women were only allowed to attend these meetings as observers, however, this new rule will give five religious sisters voting rights in the papal advisory body. This is a significant shift within the Roman Catholic Church, a historically male-dominated institution. (BBC)

Happening in the US: The Walt Disney Company has filed a lawsuit against Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, amongst other officials, for orchestrating a “campaign of government retaliation” against the company and violating its protected speech. This is the latest action in a feud between the two originating in Disney’s work to overturn the “Parental Rights in Education Act” or “Don’t Say Gay” bill. DeSantis and Republican lawmakers have attempted to strip Disney of their self-governing authority, however, the company signed a deal with the district board allowing them to retain development rights on the 40-square mile area. (NPR)

Happening in NYC: A man in the Bronx was bitten by a wild peacock Wednesday night. The peacock allegedly began to run into traffic when the man stopped to help the bird but was subsequently attacked before it flew into a nearby tree. The man suffered only minor injuries and refused to be taken to the hospital when emergency medical services arrived. (Gothamist)

Happening in Our Community: Need a break from studying for finals? Why not cuddle with some puppies in Butler? Columbia Health will be hosting dogs from New York Therapy Animals in Butler Library this evening at 6 pm. No need to register, you can drop in to say hi to the puppies!

Peacock via Wikimedia Commons