Policy The Jane Goodall Act A landmark piece of legislation. On March 22, 2022, Senator Marty Klyne reintroduced the Jane Goodall Act to the Canadian Senate. Originally introduced by Senator Murray Sinclair in 2020, the proposed bill contains new legal protections for captive big cats, bears, wolves, seals, sea lions, walruses, certain monkeys, and dangerous reptiles, such as crocodiles and giant pythons. The bill would also phase out elephant captivity in Canada. The Jane Goodall Act represents some of the strongest legislation for animal protection in the world and we’re so proud to be a part of it. This bill is a reminder that real change is possible, and we can have an even bigger impact when we work together. The Act Will… Support action on the illegal wildlife trade including elephant ivory and rhinoceros horn bans. Phase out elephant captivity in Canada. Provide limited legal standing for affected species, and encourage orca Kiska’s relocation to a whale sanctuary in Nova Scotia. Require permits for individuals and organizations to acquire or breed big cats and other species. Ban new captivity at roadside zoos for big cats, bears, wolves, seals, sea lions, walruses, certain monkeys, and dangerous reptiles. Create a new designation for Jane Goodall Act ‘animal care organizations,’ including zoos, aquariums and sanctuaries. Who Has Been Involved? Dr. Goodall and the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada Dr. Goodall and the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada (JGIC) worked closely with the Senator’s office throughout the development of the Jane Goodall Act. In addition to providing input and feedback throughout the drafting process, our role has been to bring all stakeholders and experts to the table to create a balanced legislation that would protect animals under human care and put an end to wildlife trafficking. Accredited Zoos The Toronto Zoo, the Calgary Zoo, the Granby Zoo, Assiniboine Park Zoo and the Montreal Biodome have announced their support for the Jane Goodall Act, and contributed expert advice on the new protections for big cats and other species. Animal Advocacy Organizations Six leading Canadian animal advocacy organizations have supported the bill: the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, Humane Canada, Animal Justice, World Animal Protection Canada, Humane Society International/Canada and Zoocheck Canada. These organizations have also contributed their expertise to the bill, including around the relocation of animals from unsuitable conditions to sanctuaries. Take Action 1. Read “Everything You Need to Know About the Jane Goodall Act” Advocacy starts with knowledge. Get acquainted with the details of the Act and so you can share your knowledge with friends and family. Read Now 2. Download and Share the Jane Goodall Act Facts Graphics We’ve put together some explainer graphics that are perfect for Instagram and Twitter threads. Download them below, or share directly from our Instagram page here. Download Now 3. Talk About the Act on Social Media Building public support for the Act requires all of us to talk about it. Share the Facts graphics or just start some chatter about it online. Use the hashtag #JaneGoodallAct to join the conversation. Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube LinkedIn TikTok In Jane’s Own Words “Today is an important day for animals. So many of them are in desperate need of our help and the Jane Goodall Act establishes protection and support for animals under human care. It is a monumental step forward for animals, people, and the environment. I am honoured to lend my name to this world-leading legislation that is supported by a wonderful coalition of government, conservationists, animal welfare groups and accredited zoos. Together we can and will provide a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves and put an end to the misery that is wildlife trafficking.” Support Work Like This Today Dr. Goodall – and all of us at the Institute – continue to work tirelessly to protect animals, people, and the environment. Support work like the Jane Goodall Act by making a donation today. Make a Donation
