We are heartbroken to share that Dr. Jane Goodall passed away at 91, leaving behind a legacy that forever altered the course of conservation, primatology, and our understanding of the natural world. From her early days as a curious young woman enamored with Africa’s wildlife, to her bold decision in 1960 to live among chimpanzees in Gombe, Tanzania, Jane’s journey was guided by fearless wonder. It was in those forests where she made discoveries that challenged the very definitions of what makes us human. She observed chimpanzees making and using tools — a trait long thought to belong uniquely to humans. She recognized that chimps have distinct personalities, experience emotions, form bonds, engage in conflict — in short, a social lives just as rich and complex as our own. Jane’s influence extended far beyond academia. In 1977 she founded the Jane Goodall Institute, committed to blending scientific research with community-based conservation. She also established Roots & Shoots, a youth empowerment movement that encouraged young people across the globe to take action for animals, people, and the planet. In her later years, Jane became a vocal advocate for climate action, habitat protection, and ethical treatment of animals. She traveled relentlessly, speaking to audiences large and small, always with a message of hope and responsibility. “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” That line, among her many, captures the spirit she lived by. Though she has left the earth, her influence does not fade. Her work endures in the forests she protected, in the communities she inspired, in the next generation of scientists and activists she sparked into life. Let us remember her not only as a scientist or conservationist — but as someone who believed in the power of empathy: toward animals, communities, and our fragile planet. Rest in peace, Dr. Goodall. Your courage, vision, and kindness changed the world. 🌿 (fb)

Today is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day honours the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. The reconciliation process is important for all Canadians because it is about the basics of how we treat each other as fellow human beings and the kind of relationships and communities we want to build for the future. We acknowledge that we are on Treaty 6 territory, a traditional meeting ground, gathering place, and travelling route to the Cree, Saulteaux (So-toe), Blackfoot, Métis, Dene (De-nay) and Nakota Sioux (Sue). (fb)