I've long thought that the degree of genetic relatedness between humans and chimpanzees (near 99%) and gorillas and other great apes (around 96-98%) entitles them to a legal status as relatives of humanity. Close cousins in the evolutionary geneology tree; part of the extended hominid family.

One could argue that their DNA makes them equivalent to humans with a genetic defect reducing their mental abilities, and genetic defects don't deprive humans of their status as human. On the other hand, we provide special protections for humans with reduced mental competency, and that protected status ought to be extended to our primate cousins.

I hope things work out for Hiasl in a way that sets a precedent for all his species.