Jane Goodall, Trailblazing Conservationist and Champion of Inclusion, Dies at 91

Jane Goodall, the groundbreaking British primatologist, anthropologist, and conservationist, has died at the age of 91. The Jane Goodall Institute confirmed her death on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, marking the end of an era for wildlife research and global environmental advocacy . Goodall’s name is synonymous with transformative scientific discovery and tireless activism, but her impact also resonates through the values of inclusivity and social justice that shaped her life’s work.

Born in England in 1934, Jane Goodall’s fascination with animals began in childhood. This curiosity led her to the forests of Gombe, Tanzania, in the late 1950s, where she commenced what would become the longest uninterrupted study of wild chimpanzees in history . Despite lacking a formal scientific degree at the outset, Goodall’s meticulous observation and empathetic approach challenged established norms in primatology, revolutionizing the way the world perceives animal intelligence, emotion, and community.

Her early research documented the use of tools by chimpanzees—a discovery that shattered the perceived boundary between humans and other animals and redefined the very concept of humanity . Goodall’s approach, blending rigorous science with deep compassion, opened doors for underrepresented voices in science, especially women and those from marginalized backgrounds.

Jane Goodall’s legacy is not confined to her work with chimpanzees. Throughout her career, she championed diversity, equity, and inclusion—principles that echo profoundly within LGBTQ+ communities and all who have been marginalized by mainstream institutions. Goodall often spoke about the interconnectedness of all life, emphasizing respect, empathy, and the need to protect both human and nonhuman diversity .

Under her leadership, the Jane Goodall Institute developed outreach and education programs designed to empower young people from all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ youth, to become leaders in conservation and social change . Her “Roots & Shoots” program, now active in over 100 countries, explicitly encourages youth to embrace their unique identities and perspectives, fostering a global movement built on acceptance, respect, and collaborative action.

Goodall’s activism extended well beyond the animal kingdom. She was a vocal supporter of intersectional environmentalism—the recognition that environmental justice is inseparable from social justice, including the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ people, Indigenous communities, and people of color . Goodall frequently spoke at international forums about the need for conservation to include all voices, noting that “every individual matters, every individual has a role to play,” a message that resonated deeply with LGBTQ+ activists and allies .

Her institute has partnered with organizations advocating for climate justice, reproductive rights, and LGBTQ+ equality, demonstrating an expansive commitment to human rights alongside environmental stewardship . Goodall’s vision for a just world was rooted in compassion for all beings and the conviction that sustainable change requires empowering those who have historically been silenced.

Jane Goodall’s journey from outsider to global icon has served as inspiration for generations of marginalized scientists and activists, including LGBTQ+ individuals who have faced barriers in academia and field research. Her refusal to conform to traditional gender roles in science, and her insistence on empathy and inclusivity as strengths, paved the way for queer and gender-diverse researchers to claim their place within the scientific community .

The Jane Goodall Institute’s internal policies and public statements have consistently affirmed the rights of LGBTQ+ staff, volunteers, and program participants, emphasizing the importance of safe, inclusive environments in all areas of work . As LGBTQ+ scientists continue to push for representation and equity, Goodall’s example remains a touchstone for advocacy within and beyond the conservation field.

In the hours following the announcement of her death, tributes poured in from world leaders, conservation groups, and LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations, celebrating Goodall’s profound impact on science and society . Social media campaigns, including those from LGBTQ+ environmental networks, highlighted her steadfast support for inclusive values and her encouragement of young people to live authentically and courageously.

Vigils and community gatherings have been announced in cities around the world, from London to Nairobi to San Francisco, reflecting the truly global reach of Goodall’s influence . The Jane Goodall Institute has invited the public to share memories and commit to continuing her legacy of compassion and activism.

Jane Goodall’s work will continue through the Jane Goodall Institute and its global network of conservationists, educators, and activists. Her vision of a world where every individual—no matter their background, gender identity, or sexual orientation—can contribute to positive change remains not only relevant but urgent . As the world commemorates her extraordinary life, LGBTQ+ communities and allies stand among the many who celebrate her as a role model and advocate for dignity, diversity, and hope.