Statement On the Passing of Jane Goodall Recognizing Her Life and Legacy

Washington, D.C. – The Endangered Species Coalition mourns the passing of Dr. Jane Goodall, renowned primatologist and conservationist, who died on October 1 in California. 

Statement by Susan Holmes, Executive Director, Endangered Species Coalition: 

“Today, we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall. Ethologist, activist, and champion for the Endangered Species Act. Dr. Goodall’s work forever changed the way we see ourselves in relation to the natural world.

A long-time partner and friend, the Endangered Species Coalition recognized her work at a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Endangered Species Act in 2023. Accepting the award, she said, “For all those people working so hard to make sure we protect wildlife for future generations, the Endangered Species Act provides a tool to help in their work and give them hope we can turn things around before it’s too late.” 

From the forests of Gombe, where she revealed the complex lives of wild chimpanzees, to communities across the globe, Dr. Goodall dedicated her life to science, compassion, and conservation. She transformed our understanding of biodiversity, and in doing so, inspired millions to see the interconnectedness of all life.

Dr. Goodall’s impact reached far beyond research. Her advocacy for endangered species, her tireless defense of the planet, and her message of hope shaped generations of conservationists. She reminded us that each of us has a role in protecting the fragile web of life, and that change is possible when we work together.

Her passing leaves a profound loss, but her vision endures. To carry her legacy forward is to continue the fight for wildlife, for people, and for the future of our shared planet, and at a critical point in history for us in the United States as we fight to defend and preserve the ESA.

The Endangered Species Coalition joins people around the world in mourning Dr. Goodall and recommitting ourselves to the cause she championed: a world where every species has a chance not just to survive, but to thrive.”