Dr. Goodall's Visit a Lesson In Community Compassion
Letter to the Editor, The Windsor Star (Wednesday, October 18, 2006)

      Something wonderful happened in Windsor-Essex a few weeks ago. More then 4,500 people came to hear and meet the amazing Dr. Jane Goodall giving her message of compassion, courage and hope.Tens of thousands more watched the live broadcast across Cogeco's Ontario network. Even more can watch the reboardcasts.
This amazing heroine of millions inspires young and old with her gentle strength and courage to speak about compassion for animals. She touches something that is innate in each and every one of us. We are all born with the same compassion; we need and yearn to have it validated and brougth forward into positive action.
      Like the animal rescuers who were the founders of the Children's Aid movements in both Canada and the U.S.A., people who care about animals are often the leasers in caring about children and other disadvantaged humans.
      True compassion is never species-specific. If we have empathy for the feelings of another; we have it for a hungry child as well as a hungry dog. It is innate in each of us. And so, primatologist Dr. Goodall founded Roots and Shoots for children of all ages to empower them to create a better world. And now, thanks to the leadership of Dr. Ross Paul of the University of Windsor and the local school boards, children of Windsor-Essex will also be members of the global Roots and Shoots effort.
      The list of people to thank is endless. More than 250 people enthusiastically assisted with the events surrounding Dr. Goodall's visit. Dozens of organizations and businesses supported the project. It was a wonderful community effort that has left everyone who participated with a little bit more courage and confidence to be an effective and positive agent for change.
       This project would not have stated without the initial foresight of two very strong community visionaries: Dr. Ross Paul of the University of Windsor and Mary Jean Gallagher of the Greater Essex County District School Board. This community is indeed fortunate that they saw the educational and social value of this event and were instrumental in providing it to the community.
      From the wonderful staff of the Windsor Family Credit Union to the student ushers, the organizing committee is thrilled to thank each and every one who helped: The Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board, Cogeco TV, the Art Gallery of Windsor, the Caboto Club, Casino Windsor, CKLW, The Windsor Star, Quality Inn Suites, Devonshire Mall, Green Shield, Photography by Gault, the Windsor Public Library, Windsor Police and Fire, hundreds of individual volunteers-- the list is too long for this letter-- but a very special thanks has to go to National Bank Financial's Bill Bryant whose contribution was invaluable.
Dorit Girash, Jazzpurr Society for Animal Protection

Her Vision for a Better World

      Windsor was treated recently to a memorable occasion when Jazzpurr hosted the Jane Goodall public presentation events.
      Dr. Goodall, a world-renowned primatologist and conservationist, delivered a message of respect for all living creatures and a reminder of our interdependence with the natural world. Over 40 years ago, Dr. Goodall made groundbreaking discoveries on chimpanzees which changed our understanding of human evolution, the definition of man and the biological ties between humans and chimpanzees. She revolutionized the study of primates and, in the process, opened a new dialogue on our treatment of animals and man's dominion over the animal kingdom.
      Today, Dr. Goodall champions greater protection for chimps, other animals and their habitats, as well as sustainable development and community projects in Africa. The mission embraces initiatives for both human society and the environment since alternatives are necessary for the two interconnected systems' survival.
      The scope of her vision has also expanded to include an educational model for young people around the world emphasizing knowledge of the environment, animals and community matters. Themes cover the promotion of compassion and individual responsibility, and involvement in local activities supporting animal, conservation and green causes.
      Encouragingly, University of Windsor president Dr. Ross Paul has pledged support for the Jane Goodall Institute Roots and Shoots international service and educational programs.
      Environmental and humane education curriculums are forward-looking and growing fields these days. They provide a gateway for people of all ages to learn about environmental management and animals, the ambassadors to the physical world. These programs develop ethics of empathy and responsibility, new mindfulness, and strategies to deal with issues of ecological degradation, and animal exploitation which inevitably affect human health and society.
Jennie B., Windsor