Independent Sector Mourns Passing of Disability Rights Activist Judy Heumann
(WASHINGTON, March 7, 2023) – Dr. Akilah Watkins, president and CEO of Independent Sector, issues the following statement:
“I speak for our Board of Directors and all of us at Independent Sector in expressing our profound sadness at the passing of Judith Ellen Heumann.
“Known internationally as ‘the mother of the disability rights movement,’ Judy was recognized as an American disability rights activist, civil rights leader, and a champion for people with disabilities. Her significant work with governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), nonprofits, and various other disability interest groups since 1970 led to the development of human rights legislation and policies that benefit children and adults with disabilities to this day. As noted in The New York Times, ‘She successfully battled to become a teacher and went on to help bring about a revolution in the government’s treatment of the disabled.’
“Judy’s dogged lobbying efforts helped lead to passage of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and the Rehabilitation Act. She served in the Clinton and Obama Administrations and was a Senior Fellow at the Ford Foundation, an Independent Sector member. Her story was featured in ‘Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution,’ a 2020 award winning Oscar-nominated documentary film produced by the Obama Higher Ground Production. She also published her memoir in 2020, ‘Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist,’ written with Kristen Joiner. There is also a Young Adult version called Rolling Warrior. Additionally, Judy hosted and produced a podcast and YouTube channel, ‘The Heumann Perspective,’ which lifted up changemakers in the disability community.
“Judy was a trailblazer in opening the eyes of our country to how we are made stronger by manifesting a diverse and expansive representation of all of the communities that make up our nation, including our disabled community. Her passion and determination to expand opportunities for and amplify the voices of people with disabilities will continue through the work of those she inspired daily.
On behalf of Independent Sector’s board and staff, we send our heartfelt condolences to Judy’s family, friends, and all who loved and admired her.”
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Independent Sector is the only national membership organization that brings together a diverse community of changemakers, nonprofits, foundations, and corporations working to strengthen civil society and ensure all people in the United States thrive.
Media Contact: media@independentsector.org
