Goodall, one of the world's most respected wildlife advocates, dedicated her life to pioneering research on chimpanzees, making her an iconic figure. The scientist died in Los Angeles on October 1 while on a lecture tour.
The ceremony in honor of Goodall was attended by family, friends, and figures from her circle. Actor Leonardo DiCaprio was one of those who delivered a tribute, urging attendees to honor her legacy: "Let us all honor her by maintaining that firm conviction that we can do better, that we must do better, and that we have a responsibility to protect this beautiful world."
DiCaprio, who had several encounters with her, highlighted Goodall's "unwavering" faith that "every voice matters" and that each person can make a difference. The actor described her as a woman who was "gentle, curious, funny, witty, and absolutely unstoppable," with the ability to inspire everyone she met to believe that they could "do better" individually.
Anna Rathmann, Executive Director of the Jane Goodall Institute USA, remarked that Goodall had "superpowers" and a "calm and comforting presence," which allowed her to succeed both as an ethologist and an advocate.
Goodall's legacy was also celebrated by DeWayne Crank of the Navajo Nation, who emphasized that her work "reflects harmony with Navajo beliefs" and serves as a reminder of "respect for all living beings." Her grandson, Merlin van Lawick, added that the primatologist "constantly reminded us that life is full of wonders, an interconnected mosaic of diverse creatures."
During the ceremony, some people brought stuffed chimpanzees as a nod to her pioneering research. It is worth noting that Goodall founded the Jane Goodall Institute in Washington in 1977 and launched the environmental program for youth Roots & Shoots in 1991, which now operates in over 60 countries. Goodall, who received numerous honors such as the Presidential Medal of Freedom, always advocated that we are all connected to the living world.