Imagine not having the freedom of choice or not being able to choose how to spend your day. Imagine not knowing what it feels like to walk in grass or have the breeze blow on your skin. Imagine living alone in a 5 x 7 cage for most of your life without another to keep you company. For most of us, this is hard to imagine; however, many chimpanzees have been stripped of their freedoms and forced into the medical, pet and entertainment industries.

This week I am reminded how precious freedom is. At Chimpanzee Sanctuary Northwest, we strive to give the Cle Elum Seven as much freedom as possible. And while a sanctuary does not provide the complete freedom that chimps would find in the wild, we do give them the second best alternative. I am pleased to know that many more will be given the opportunity to experience freedom now that the National Institutes of Health has announced their plan to retire hundreds of chimpanzees. I hope that other chimpanzees will get to experience the freedoms that the Cle Elum Seven have.

Foxie has the freedom to choose what doll she wants to play with.

Jody is free to spend her day making nests out of bamboo.

Burrito has the freedom to choose what he wants to eat during his forage.

Negra is able to spend her day in a cozy nest of blankets.

Missy and Annie have the freedom to form a special bond with each other.

Jamie is able to spend the day outside, running and playing.

Thank you for supporting us and providing the Cle Elum Seven with the freedoms they deserve. I wish you and your family a Happy Fourth of July!