As a newcomer to TikTok, I was deeply distressed by the widespread exploitation of primates for gaining followers. Seeing these beautiful animals, who are not pets, dressed up like toys for amusement deeply troubled me. There's nothing cute about infants being cruelly separated from their distraught mothers for the purpose of entertainment.

Primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall famously stated, "Wild Chimpanzees, gorillas, orangutans, and bonobos are not pets. They are our kin… we demean ourselves by using them for our entertainment.” Moreover, it is alarming how social media platforms proliferate such practices by allowing and amplifying this kind of content.

According to a 2013 report by the International Fund for Animal Welfare, there were approximately 13,000 incidents of illicit primate trade over a period of 5 years, many of which were sold as pets. The trafficking, sale and exploitation of primates is not only ethically unconscionable but contributes significantly to the extinction of these crucial species around the world.

In response to this growing issue, we implore TikTok to take definitive actions to curb the glorification and promotion of primate exploitation across its platform. This includes stringent auditing of content and severe penalties for violations. Let's stand together for the rights and welfare of primates. We ask that you join us in declaring that exploitation is not entertainment. Please, sign this petition.