On October 1st, Dr. Jane Goodall passed away at age 91. Goodall is a world-renowned primatologist, anthropologist, and conservationist. According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Goodall died in her sleep due to cardiac arrest which is considered a natural death. Despite her no longer being with us, her work toward research and social justice remains incredibly inspiring.
Jane Goodall is most widely known for her study of chimpanzees. Upon arriving at Gombe Stream National Park in 1960, she observed chimpanzees eating meat, using tools, and forming social bonds similar to humans. These discoveries redefined the belief that humans are completely unique from animals. In 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI). The JGI is a global conservation organization that aims to improve life for animals, people, and the environment. While still actively protecting chimpanzees across Africa and planting millions of trees, the JGI also works to empower young women and recognize their role in conservation.
Jane Goodall also founded Roots & Shoots. Roots & Shoots is a program for young conservationists and has led to projects such as food pantries and local plant regeneration. Both the JGI and Roots & Shoots are reflective of Goodall’s lifelong devotion to social justice. These efforts have been recognized through accomplishments such as being named a United Nations Messenger of Peace and earning the title of Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire from King Charles III.
BC Junior Ellery Gaedtke said that she became interested in wildlife conservation partly due to Goodall’s research. She said, “Goodall was the one who really opened me to ideas about how humans aren’t the only species that feels complex emotions and forms bonds with each other. She really expanded our views of other species and that totally changes how we treat animals with empathy.” Gaedtke further explained why Goodall remains an inspiration for many: “She is really inspiring to young people like us because she went against the beliefs of the capabilities of animals at that time, even when people didn’t believe in her ideas. At the time, her theories seemed so out there, but she didn’t back down.”
While Jane Goodall may no longer be with us, her legacy lives on. To honor one of the most influential figures of our time, you can learn more about her research, support wildlife conservation organizations, and even start your own Roots & Shoots Project! There is peace in knowing Goodall spent her last days doing what she loved, which was talking about animals, spreading her message, and encouraging love and respect for all living things.
