A Canadian woman with a deep passion for giraffes, who dedicated years to studying them in Africa, is being recognized in a new Heritage Minutes short film. Historica Canada unveiled the video featuring Anne Innis Dagg of Waterloo, Ontario, who passed away last year at the age of 91. Dagg, a renowned zoologist and author of several books, including a definitive work on giraffes, made significant contributions to the field after her research in Africa.
The initiative to showcase Dagg’s legacy came about when Historica Canada approached her family, specifically her daughter Mary Dagg, the CEO of the Anne Innis Dagg Foundation, in 2024. The family enthusiastically embraced the idea, viewing it as an excellent opportunity to shed light on Dagg’s remarkable achievements. The Heritage Minute, released during Women’s History Month in Canada, celebrates Dagg’s resilience and dedication in making a lasting impact in her field.
Anthony Wilson-Smith, Historica Canada’s president and CEO, emphasized Dagg’s outstanding qualities that align perfectly with the essence of a Heritage Minute. He praised her for overcoming challenges to leave a significant mark in a specialized field, highlighting her grace and unwavering commitment. Wilson-Smith emphasized the importance of recognizing Dagg as a source of national pride, encouraging all Canadians to learn about her extraordinary contributions.
Despite facing obstacles in her career, Dagg’s expertise and advocacy for gender equality, particularly in academia, are highlighted in the Heritage Minute. The film underscores her struggles to secure a permanent teaching position despite her qualifications, emphasizing her later efforts to promote gender equality in educational settings.
Dagg’s life was also the subject of a 2018 documentary titled “The Woman Who Loves Giraffes,” directed by Alison Reid. The idea for the documentary emerged after Reid visited Dagg’s home and discovered a treasure trove of historical material, including footage from the 1950s. The decision to shift from a theatrical movie to a documentary format was spurred by the wealth of content available, encapsulating Dagg’s fascinating journey and contributions.
Mary Dagg shared insights into the documentary’s production process, revealing that it took five years to complete, involving visits to Africa for interviews with Dagg, fellow giraffe experts, and individuals associated with the university where Dagg faced challenges regarding tenure.
Mary expressed hope that the Heritage Minute would inspire viewers to take action and engage in conservation efforts. She emphasized the importance of nurturing a sense of passion and determination, mirroring her mother’s unwavering commitment to her work. The Heritage Minute serves as a tribute to Anne Innis Dagg’s enduring legacy and her impact on wildlife conservation.
The story of Anne Innis Dagg is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the pursuit of knowledge, resonating with audiences and honoring her invaluable contributions to science and gender equality.