As we head into International Women’s Day today, we wanted to acknowledge the passing of Judy Heumann this past Saturday, March 4. Judy was widely regarded as “the mother” of the disability rights movement and was instrumental in developing and implementing national disability rights legislation, including Section 504, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Her memorial and burial will be live streamed today at 10:00 a.m., on International Women’s Day, which is quite fitting for the mother of the disability rights movement. Here are two great videos that capture Judy’s spirit.
- Remembering Judy Heumann’s lasting contributions to disability rights (PBS)
- Defying Obstacles in “Being Heumann” and “Crip Camp” (The Daily Show)
Let's continue Judy's legacy by learning about her story and her mission. Learn more about Judy by reading her memoir entitled, “Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist." You can also purchase her young adult version for any children you know entitled, “Rolling Warrior: The Incredible, Sometimes Awkward, True Story of a Rebel Girl on Wheels Who Helped Spark a Revolution.” You can also watch Crip Camp, which shares with insight, clarity, humor, and beauty the experiences of a group of disabled young people, including Judy, and their journey to activism and adulthood.