Judy Heumann leaves us with a lasting legacy of leadership, activism

April 2023
By Taryn M. Williams

The passing of Judith (Judy) Heumann on March 4 at the age of 75 leaves a lasting legacy of leadership and activism in the disability rights movement. Heumann played a key role in numerous policy advancements for people with disabilities in America, particularly in efforts to create a more equitable and inclusive workforce. Her activism began at a young age, as seen in the documentary "Crip Camp," where she developed leadership skills at a summer camp for teens with disabilities.

Notably, Heumann led the historic 1977 "504 sit-in" at the San Francisco Federal Building, contributing to the signing of regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Section 504 was a landmark step in advancing civil rights for people with disabilities, laying the foundation for the Americans with Disabilities Act. Heumann's impact is celebrated as a guiding light, and her legacy of true leadership will endure in the disability community.

Judy Heumann leaves us with a lasting legacy of leadership, activism | Access Press