Heroes protect what can’t protect itself

Like most people, we’ve followed the stories of heroes throughout our lives. One great example is Dian Fossey, who sacrificed her life for the mountain gorillas she loved, and changed their future through her heroism. It was a privilege to tell her story in Gorillas in the Mist. Today, we both serve on the board of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International and support the work of the unheralded heroes who continue her work.

A national survey shows that as Americans mature, the professions they associate with heroism shift from those in the spotlight to those who serve others. Those who regarded animal conservationists as heroic doubled between childhood and adulthood, increasing from 18% to 36%.

It’s the shift in public appreciation that’s important, as we face some real challenges to global biodiversity. For example, 25% of all mammal species sharing our planet are now threatened with extinction.

These challenges do not mean that the game is over, however, and that we have lost. Heroes can — and do — make a difference.

There’s no question that conservationists have their work cut out for them. But 2016 Indianapolis Prize Winner Carl Jones saved the Mauritius kestrel when there were only four left in the world, and then went on to achieve amazing success with other species. The thing about real heroes is that you can count on them. And when conservation superstars keep delivering victories, it would be foolish not to keep placing our trust in them.

The other good news is that Americans are becoming “fans” in record numbers. Ninety-three percent of Americans surveyed now say that it’s in humans’ best interests to protect wildlife and wild places, and 91% say that the survival of endangered animals is important to society at large. Let’s keep our eyes on the prize, and let’s keep cheering for the good guys. Sigourney Weaver, ambassador Michael Crowther, CEO Indianapolis Zoological Society Indianapolis

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