by Cate Wright

This #WomensHistoryMonth our office is celebrating the work of Dr. Jane Goodall, a woman who redefined man 55 years ago. Best known for her work on behavioral studies of primates in Gombe Stream, Tanzania, Jane Goodall has become an icon of conservation and peace. As a primatologist, Dr. Goodall challenged convention, proving that chimpanzees were not vegetarian and that humans were not the only animals to construct tools for use. In doing so, she defied what it meant to be human and made it harder to justify the poaching and consumption of animals.

As a young girl, Jane Goodall was the most famous mainstream female scientist in my world. Her passion for the animal kingdom was felt globally and was personally inspirational to me as a child fascinated by Zoo Books and the life behind animals’ eyes. Jane Goodall saw the humanity in animals better than anyone. She was among the first to deeply study primate social life. Goodall claims, “I miss the early days; I basically had it to myself, learning about these chimpanzees. Nobody knew anything about them.” This opportunity opened the door for Jane but also allowed students to like me to see that a love for animals could lead to something real: a career with heart.

Using her platform of fame and prestige, Jane Goodall has written numerous books, participated in documentaries, founded an institute, and spoken up for animals and their habitats. More recently, she has become an outspoken advocate on climate change, calling on politicians to preserve a future world for our children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Part of her primatology studies initiatives includes repping the vegetarian lifestyle and advocating for ethical treatment of animals. As a vocal vegetarian, Goodall fights for the rights of farm animals as being sentient, intelligent beings, deserving respect. The irony of eating animals and loving animals at once is the ultimate hypocrisy.

Some critics have argued that her close connection with the chimps she observed such as Gray Beard, Froto, and Goliath bordered on anthropomorphizing. However, her attention to these creatures furthered the knowledge about our evolutionary relatives and inspired a generation of children to look to natures lingering curiosities.

After all these years, I still look to Jane Goodall as the grand-dame of animal studies and an inspirational leader in the environmental field. Her accomplishments push me to bring that same compassion and curiosity into my own goals. As a woman steadfast in her ethos, Jane Goodall will continue to inspire me and other young women and leave a mark on history.

Cate Wright is a Junior in Media, Culture, and Communications major with a passion for environmentalism. Cate runs the NYU ECO Reps on campus.