Jane Goodall, celebrated ethologist, conservationist and humanitarian, passed away on Oct. 1, at the age of 91.
She spent her early life researching and caring for chimpanzees and other African animals in Gombe National Park. She made groundbreaking discoveries with chimps and was credited with redefining understanding of humankind through them. However, as Goodall aged, her focus shifted away from her research and more towards standing up for her beliefs on topics such as human rights and overall animal welfare.
Throughout her life, Goodall wrote over 27 books and participated in many documentaries and films. She also had a National Geographic traveling exhibition dedicated to her and her work in 2019. In 2021, she published her last book, “The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times,” focused on political upheaval, the current climate crisis and the ongoing loss of biodiversity.
Throughout her work, Goodall has been awarded the titles of Dame Commander of the most Excellent Order of the British Empire, United Nations Messenger of Peace and is a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She has also received the Ghandi-King Award for Nonviolence, Kyoto Prize of Basic Science, Benjamin Franklin Medal in Life Science, Templeton Prize and much more.
Goodall was a firm believer that anyone can make a difference, no matter who they are or where they come from. She not only defended the right to protest, but joined fellow protestors and activists often throughout her life. She was an advocate for peaceful protesting and the right to speak out.
In 1977, Goodall founded The Jane Goodall Institute to support her research and help it reach a further audience. The institute recently launched “Remembering Jane,” a project designed to recognise and support her work.
Goodall’s work has helped and inspired millions of people throughout the world. “Remembering Jane” asks that we keep that legacy alive and we continue what she started in Gombe. Jane Goodall did so much for our planet, and her legacy will continue to make a difference for years to come.
