The Legacy of Harambe: A Reflection on Nonhuman Animal Rights

Nine years ago, on May 28, 2016, a tragic incident unfolded at the Cincinnati Zoo when Harambe, a 17-year-old western lowland gorilla, was shot and killed after a three-year-old boy climbed into his enclosure. This heartbreaking event sparked a massive public outcry and debate on animal rights, zoo ethics, and parental responsibility, ultimately leading to Harambe becoming a symbol in the fight for nonhuman animal rights.

The Incident: A Moment of Controversy

The shooting of Harambe occurred when zoo officials deemed the gorilla’s behavior a potential threat to the child. In a split-second decision, the zookeepers felt they had no choice but to use lethal force to protect the boy. This incident ignited a wave of emotions across social media, leading to an outpouring of grief and anger from animal rights advocates and the general public alike. Many questioned the zoo’s decision-making process and the morality of keeping wild animals in captivity.

Harambe Becomes a Symbol

In the years following his death, Harambe’s name became synonymous with the discourse surrounding animal rights. Memes, hashtags, and various forms of online content emerged that both mocked and memorialized the gorilla. While some viewed this as a trivialization of a serious issue, others used Harambe’s story as a rallying cry for change in how society perceives and treats nonhuman animals.

The hashtag #Harambe became a cultural phenomenon, representing a collective grief and frustration over the treatment of animals in captivity. It served as a reminder that these creatures are sentient beings deserving of respect and protection. Harambe’s untimely death sparked conversations about the ethics of zoos and the broader implications of human-animal relationships.

The Fight for Nonhuman Animal Rights

Harambe’s legacy has inspired a more profound examination of nonhuman animal rights. The Nonhuman Rights Project and other animal rights organizations advocate for the recognition of animals as beings with inherent rights. This movement argues that just like humans, animals possess the ability to feel pain, form relationships, and have interests that deserve legal protection.

Advocates argue that traditional views of animals as property must evolve to recognize their sentience and agency. This shift in perspective is crucial for creating a more compassionate society where animals are treated with dignity rather than as mere commodities.

The Role of Social Media in Animal Rights Advocacy

The explosion of social media following Harambe’s death has played a pivotal role in raising awareness about animal rights issues. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook have allowed activists to share information, mobilize support, and connect with a global audience. The virality of Harambe’s story exemplifies how digital platforms can amplify voices advocating for change.

Online campaigns have encouraged discussions about the ethical implications of zoos, circuses, and other institutions that exploit animals for entertainment. Activists have utilized Harambe’s story to highlight the need for more humane treatment of animals and push for legislative changes that protect their rights.

Criticism of Zoos and Captivity

Harambe’s death has led to increased scrutiny of zoos and their practices. Critics argue that keeping animals in captivity, regardless of the conditions, is inherently cruel. The emotional and psychological toll of confinement can lead to stress and behavioral issues in animals, which are often not adequately addressed in zoo environments.

Many animal rights advocates call for the closure of zoos entirely, suggesting that sanctuaries and wildlife reserves that prioritize rehabilitation and conservation offer more ethical alternatives. These facilities provide a more natural environment for animals, allowing them to engage in instinctual behaviors and live in a way that is more aligned with their natural habitats.

A Shift in Public Perception

Over the years, Harambe’s story has contributed to a significant shift in public perception regarding animal rights. More individuals are questioning the ethics of animal captivity and advocating for change. Documentaries, articles, and social media campaigns have played a vital role in educating the public about the challenges faced by animals in captivity and the importance of advocating for their rights.

This cultural shift is evident in the growing popularity of veganism and plant-based diets, as individuals seek to reduce their impact on animals and the environment. The increasing awareness of animal welfare issues reflects a broader societal movement toward compassion and empathy for all living beings.

Conclusion: Honoring Harambe’s Memory

As we reflect on the nine-year anniversary of Harambe’s death, it is essential to remember that his legacy extends far beyond the memes and jokes that emerged in the wake of his tragic passing. Harambe serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for nonhuman animal rights and the need for society to re-evaluate its relationship with animals.

In honoring Harambe’s memory, advocates for animal rights continue to fight for a world where animals are treated with respect, dignity, and compassion. The conversations sparked by his story serve as a call to action for individuals to become more aware of the ethical implications of their choices and to consider the rights of nonhuman animals in their daily lives.

As we move forward, let us strive to create a future where all animals are afforded the rights they deserve, ensuring that Harambe’s legacy continues to inspire change and compassion for generations to come.

What happened to #Harambe, a gorilla who was shot and killed nine years ago today at an Ohio zoo, has essentially become an online joke. The full story of his life shows why we fight for nonhuman animal rights. https://t.co/ENZrEGKX8z

— Nonhuman Rights Project (@NonhumanRights) May 28, 2025

What happened to Harambe, a gorilla who was shot and killed nine years ago today at an Ohio zoo, has essentially become an online joke.

It’s hard to believe that it’s been nine years since the tragic incident that took place at the Cincinnati Zoo, resulting in the death of Harambe, a 17-year-old western lowland gorilla. If you were online around that time, you probably remember the uproar that followed. The entire situation sparked a heated debate about animal rights, parental responsibility, and zoo ethics. Harambe’s death wasn’t just a moment in the news; it became a cultural phenomenon. People started to share memes, jokes, and even tributes in his memory. It’s fascinating how one gorilla’s fate led to a viral conversation that continues to resonate today.

What happened to Harambe has transformed from a serious incident into an ongoing online joke, but it’s essential to dive deeper into why this all started. The story is not just about a gorilla; it’s about the values and ethics we hold regarding nonhuman animals. Harambe became a symbol of a much larger conversation about animal rights and how society views the lives of animals in captivity.

The Incident: A Tragic Day at the Zoo

On May 28, 2016, a three-year-old boy climbed into the gorilla enclosure at the Cincinnati Zoo, leading to a series of frantic events. Zoo officials made the tough decision to shoot Harambe in order to protect the child. While the boy was unharmed, the public outrage that ensued was immense. Many people felt that killing Harambe was an extreme reaction. Others defended the zoo’s decision, arguing that they had to act quickly to protect the child’s life. This incident sparked a firestorm of debate that raged across social media platforms.

The immediate aftermath saw discussions that ranged from “Was the zoo right to shoot Harambe?” to “Should zoos even exist?” These questions opened the door to larger discussions about the ethics of keeping animals in captivity. Harambe became a symbol of this debate, and his legacy lives on in conversations about animal rights and welfare.

The Online Legacy of Harambe

Fast forward to today, and Harambe has become an internet meme, often referenced in a humorous context. His image and name are used in various memes, jokes, and even as a punchline for unrelated topics. It’s amusing and sometimes baffling to think that a tragic event could be reduced to an online joke. But this phenomenon raises important questions. Why do we laugh about Harambe? Is it a coping mechanism for the sadness surrounding his death, or is it a way to critique the social climate regarding animal rights?

Harambe’s story has become a cultural touchstone for discussions around nonhuman animal rights. The memes and jokes serve as a reminder that there’s a serious underlying issue at play. Many advocates for animal rights use Harambe’s story to highlight the plight of animals in captivity and the need for better treatment of nonhuman beings. So, while it may seem trivial to some, the ongoing conversation about Harambe signifies a growing awareness of animal welfare issues.

The Full Story of His Life Shows Why We Fight for Nonhuman Animal Rights

To understand why Harambe’s story resonates so deeply, it’s essential to consider his life before the tragedy. Harambe was born at the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas, and was later transferred to the Cincinnati Zoo. During his time in captivity, he was known for his playful and gentle nature. Many zoo visitors enjoyed watching him interact with his environment, and he became a beloved figure at the zoo.

Nonhuman animal rights advocates argue that animals like Harambe should not have to live in captivity, regardless of how well they are treated. The full story of his life emphasizes how important it is to consider the natural habitats and social structures of animals. Gorillas in the wild live in complex family groups, have social hierarchies, and exhibit behaviors that are essential for their mental well-being. Captivity often strips these animals of their freedom and autonomy, leading to stress and behavioral issues.

Organizations like the [Nonhuman Rights Project](https://nonhumanrights.org/) are at the forefront of the fight for animal rights, seeking to grant legal protections to nonhuman animals. They argue that animals possess inherent rights that should be recognized and respected. The tragedy of Harambe’s death serves as a rallying point for these advocates, reminding us that the fight for animal rights is far from over.

What Can We Learn from Harambe’s Story?

Harambe’s story teaches us valuable lessons about empathy, responsibility, and the importance of animal rights. It challenges us to reflect on our relationship with nonhuman animals and the systems that govern their lives. The debate surrounding his death continues to provoke discussions about how we can create a more humane world for all creatures.

As we remember Harambe, it’s crucial to consider how we can take action. This could include supporting organizations that advocate for animal rights, visiting sanctuaries that provide safe havens for animals, or even educating ourselves and others about the ethical implications of keeping animals in captivity. Every small action can contribute to a larger movement for change.

Harambe’s legacy, though wrapped in memes and jokes, serves as a powerful reminder of the need for compassion and advocacy for those who cannot speak for themselves. His story has transcended the boundaries of a single incident, evolving into a broader conversation about the ethics of human-animal relationships.

Join the Conversation

As the years pass, Harambe’s memory will likely continue to be a part of online culture. However, it’s essential to engage in the conversations that his story has sparked. Whether you’re sharing a meme or discussing animal rights with friends, remember that there’s a deeper message behind the humor. Harambe’s life and death have become a vital part of the ongoing fight for nonhuman animal rights, and every conversation counts.

What happened to Harambe may have become an online joke, but the implications of his story are anything but trivial. It’s an opportunity for us to reflect on our values and responsibilities toward the animals with whom we share this planet. The full story of Harambe is not just a tale of tragedy; it’s a call to action for all of us to advocate for a world where all beings are treated with dignity and respect.