From AV Club · · 50s
Being Heumann gives disability rights revolution a glossy, hokey sheen
Sian Heder's Being Heumann captures disability rights activism but lacks political depth.
In brief
Sian Heder's Being Heumann captures disability rights activism but lacks political depth. Sian Heder's Being Heumann portrays Judy Heumann's disability rights activism but misses the political complexity of real change. Originally reported by AV Club.
Opening shots
Sian Heder's Being Heumann opens with New York city tarmac and electric wheelchair purr.
Judy Heumann's activism
Real activist Judy Heumann secured equal opportunities for disabled Americans in work and education.
San Francisco occupation
Activists occupied a San Francisco government building for 20 days to ratify federal disability rights decree.
Living conditions
Activists slept on sofa cushions and froze medications under air conditioning units.
Political challenges
Activists faced police pushback and state intimidation during 20-day occupation.
Black Panthers scene
Black Panthers brought food to activists, facing police questioning about their supplies.
“Corn, fried chicken, rice…revolution”
At a glance
Sian Heder's Being Heumann portrays Judy Heumann's disability rights activism but misses the political complexity of real change.
