How does one pay tribute to someone you never got to know or meet? Judith Heumann is one such person I never got to know or meet, yet got to admire from afar.
My introduction to Heumann came at the start of the pandemic in March 2020, courtesy of a documentary called Crip Camp. Her contributions to making America a more inclusive place for people with disabilities was richly documented. I learned about her advocacy, and also got to know some of her chutzpah and her feisty personality.
The Washington Press dubbed Heumann the mother of the disability rights movement, and a “badass.” Thankfully she lives on through this movie, and through her podcasts, videos and literature. She also lives on in the stories and memories of everyone who either worked with her or were influenced by her. I believe the broader disability community is stronger because of her contributions.
I wish I had gotten to know her, but her outstanding achievements and the mentioned resources that she left behind will compensate for that. May she Rest In Peace, and in power. ♿️💪
