Photo credit: Katherine Holland
JGI calls on York University to immediately retire rhesus macaques facing invasive animal experimentation
We are deeply troubled by the conditions and treatment of the nine rhesus macaques (Hannah, Liesl, Mini-Sass, Olivia, Virginia, Do, Kenny, Bento, and Magneto) documented in ‘Last Chance for Animals’ investigation at York University in Canada, reported in April 2026.
Throughout her life, Dr. Jane Goodall advocated for the humane treatment of animals and spoke out against invasive experimentation, particularly involving primates, while supporting the development and use of alternatives to animal research.
JGI continues to carry forward her legacy of compassion and advocacy for animals. The Jane Goodall Institute (JGI) has a longstanding commitment to the compassionate and ethical treatment of animals.
While recognizing the important role of science and research, JGI believes that advances and innovations in non-animal methods should lead to a reduction in invasive animal experimentation and ultimately to its elimination.
We call on York University to immediately retire the nine macaques from research and provide them with a permanent home in an appropriate sanctuary. JGI would like to work collaboratively with the university towards a resolution to that end.
