On Saturday, March 4th, the world lost a disability advocacy giant/hero.
Judith Heumann, regarded by many to be the “Mother of the Disability Rights Movement,” and also chronicled in the 2022 award-winning film, Crip Camp, was a trailblazing force for critical change for those with disabilities until her sudden passing at age 75.
While I never had the honor of meeting Heumann, who became a wheelchair user after contracting Polio at age 5, her groundbreaking work has had powerful impact on my own.
Among her many accomplishments, Heumann was the first wheelchair user to work as a teacher in NYC.
Judy Heumann will be sorely missed.
Just four minutes of your time will help you have a better appreciation and understanding for Heumann’s work and those with disabilities. Listen to NPR’s ‘All Things Considered here.” Remembering disability rights activist Judith Heumann : NPR
Well worth your time.
Read President Biden’s statement on Heumann’s Impact and her passing here.
Statement from President Joe Biden on the Passing of Judith Heumann | The White House
Image courtesy of the Women’s History Museum.