Judith Heumann, a civil rights activist and disability rights advocate, died on March 4 at the age of 75. She was one of the leading figures in the movement that sought to redefine what it means to be a disabled person in the United States (US) and Internationally.
Judy was an international disability advocate who served under the administrations of the Obama and Clinton. She also worked as a Senior Fellow for the Ford Foundation. Her story was featured in a documentary entitled “Crip Camp.” The film, which was produced by a company called Obama Higher Ground Production, was an award-winning documentary.
Judy 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), the Rehabilitation Act, and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
We hope that Judy’s legacy will continue to inspire others to stand up for change as Judy said.” I wanna see a feisty group of disabled people around the world…if you don’t respect yourself and if you don’t demand what you believe in for yourself, you’re not gonna get it”- Judy Heumann
We are honored to have had Judy as an inspiration to our community. She has helped establish the foundation of the Independent Living Movement, which is focused on providing individuals with the necessary rights. More about her biography can be found on Judy’s website: Judy Heumann | Disability Rights Advocate | Judithheumann