Target: Robert J. Jones, President of the University of Washington
Goal: End experiments on primates after the horrific death of a newborn macaque.
The treatment of a newborn macaque at the University of Washington’s primate center is deeply troubling. Reportedly, on June 30, 2025, this infant monkey was sealed alive in a biohazard bag and left gasping for breath in a cooler after staff mistakenly believed it was dead. This appalling failure in animal care led to the infant’s agonizing death, and instead of addressing this cruelty, leadership at the primate center was purportedly focused on rebranding the facility to distance themselves from a long history of animal welfare violations.
Despite the devastating incident, senior leadership reportedly convened to discuss a marketing strategy, believing that removing “Primate” from the center’s name would shield them from scrutiny and improve fundraising opportunities. This discussion took place only weeks after a critical violation was cited by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Records indicate that the primate center is entwined in a national effort among similar institutions to obscure their track records of animal cruelty through superficial name changes rather than addressing systemic issues within their facilities.
Immediate action is necessary to hold the University of Washington accountable. By demanding accountability and an end to such cruel practices, it is possible to foster a shift towards humane and ethical research methods that prioritize the well-being of animals and effectively contribute to scientific advancement.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear President Jones,
The horrific treatment of a newborn macaque at the University of Washington’s primate center demands immediate attention and accountability. On June 30, 2025, staff at the facility allegedly sealed this infant monkey in a biohazard bag, believing it to be dead, and left it gasping for breath in a cooler. This apparent appalling oversight resulted in the unnecessary euthanasia of a living creature, raising serious questions about the center’s commitment to animal welfare.
Disturbingly, instead of taking responsibility for this tragic incident, senior leadership appears to be more focused on rebranding the institution to evade scrutiny. On July 17, 2025, it was reportedly discussed that “Primate” be removed from the center’s name to improve fundraising and distance the facility from its history of animal rights violations.
We urge you to push for an end to cruel animal experimentation practices. This includes holding those involved accountable for their actions and promoting a transition to humane research methods that respect and protect animal life.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
