From TIME · Rebekah Taussig · · 2m
Judy Heumann's Legacy and Disability Rights
Film 'Being Heumann' celebrates disability rights movement while facing legal threats to Section 504.
In brief
Film 'Being Heumann' celebrates disability rights movement while facing legal threats to Section 504. Judy Heumann's activism for disability rights led to Section 504, but recent legal challenges threaten its implementation. Originally reported by TIME.
Film Screening Night
I sat at a movie theater table as writers read my co-written script with Oscar-winning filmmaker Siân Heder.
Childhood Disability Experience
I watched Forrest Gump overcome disability by running so hard his braces fell off.
Section 504 Impact
Section 504 reframed disability as a community issue needing correction rather than personal tragedy.
1977 Sit-In Movement
Over 100 disabled activists and allies occupied San Francisco government offices for nearly a month.
ADA Passage
The Americans with Disabilities Act passed in 1990 with bipartisan support after Section 504.
Personal Inclusion Story
My wheelchair was never mentioned in job interviews while Judy was denied a teaching license due to her disability.
Airline Wheelchair Incident
My custom wheelchair was stolen from the airport after a flight home, leaving me in a temporary cart.
Legal Challenge Emerges
Texas v. Becerra lawsuit seeks to make Section 504 unconstitutional by 17 state attorneys general.
Legal Memo Shift
Justice Department memo claims states can send disabled people to institutions instead of community support.
Cost Discrepancy
Institutional care for one disabled person costs over $310,000 annually versus $70,000 for community-based services.
Court Ruling
Court vacated critical integration language from Section 504 despite strong advocacy from disability groups.
Film Festival Premiere
Being Heumann premiered at Toronto International Film Festival with my wheelchair frame and sequined dress.
Judy's Passing
Judy Heumann died unexpectedly while the film was being produced, leaving a legacy of disability rights.
Legacy Concerns
Many disability rights leaders from Judy's generation have passed away since the movement began.
Film's Impact
The film highlights disability as a dynamic, nuanced, deeply human experience rather than a legal issue.
Future Challenges
Disability rights movement must balance legal protections with societal inclusion.
The takeaway
Judy Heumann's activism for disability rights led to Section 504, but recent legal challenges threaten its implementation.
