Judith “Judy” Heumann— widely regarded as “the mother” of the disability rights movement— passed away in Washington, D.C. on March 4, 2023.
Judith "Judy" Heumann (1947-2023) was an internationally recognized disability rights activist, widely regarded as “the mother” of the Disability Rights Movement. She was a leader in the historic Section 504 Sit-In of 1977 and instrumental in the development and implementation of other disability rights legislation. Judy worked in the Clinton and Obama Administrations, as an advisor at the World Bank, and as a Senior Fellow at the Ford Foundation. Judy's story is featured in the Oscar-nominated documentary Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution and her book, Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist.
Judy's Life in Her Own Words
Judy's memoir Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist was published in 2020. Shortly following was the Young Adult version, Rolling Warrior. Both were co-authored by Kristen Joiner. Oscar-winner Sian Heder is writing and directing a film adaptation of Being Heumann that was optioned by Apple.
Judy Heumann Merch
Available in various colors, sizes, and styles through Bonfire. All proceeds benefit the American Association of People with Disabilities, the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund, and the World Institute on Disability.
Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution
Judy's story is featured in the 2020 Oscar-nominated documentary, Crip Camp. Directed by Jim LeBrecht and Nicole Newnham. Available on Netflix and YouTube.
