Dr. Jane Goodall passed away on October 1, 2025. Having worked very closely with her for many year​s—​writing a book and a number of essays, working with her on some of her books, chairing and co-chairing the Ethics Committee of the Jane Goodall Institute, spreading the good word about her Roots & Shoots program, and sharing peaty scotch she called her "cough medicine"—every December I reflect on the past year, and what is coming up in the new year, and it came to me that revisiting and updating a short essay I wrote with Jane in December 1999, as we were heading into a new century, could provide a good beginning and some much-needed hope​. This essay, "Twelve Millennial Mantras," eventually formed the basis for our book The Ten Trusts: What We Must Do to Care for the Animals We Love.

One of our major messages was that all animals, human and nonhuman, and their homes and other habitats would benefit from the efforts, no matter how big or small, of those who can make a positive difference in their lives. As I was writing this essay, I came upon an entire issue of Time magazine devoted to Jane's life that revisited a many of her significant contributions. Reflecting on her enduring passion and global influence—"Jane Magic"—on millions of people and keeping it alive seemed very timely given her passing a few months ago. Of course, there remains much unfinished business.

One: Compassion and empathy for animals beget compassion and empathy for humans. Cruelty towards animals begets cruelty toward humans.

Two: All life has value and should be respected. Every animal owns their own life spark. Animals are not owned as property. All living creatures deserve these basic rights: the right to life, freedom from torture, and liberty to express their individual natures. Many law schools offer courses in animal law. If........

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