In 1970, Judith “Judy” Heumann became the first wheelchair user to teach in a New York City public school. Seven years later, she led a 28-day sit-in that resulted in the signing of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act — the first federal civil rights law protecting those with disabilities. Since then, Heumann, 73, has served in both the Clinton and Obama administrations and become an international leader in disability rights work.
In February 2020, Heumann published her book
As Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month comes to a close, The Forward spoke with Heumann about the pandemic’s impact on disability rights, her hopes for the Biden administration and how Jewish communities can better elevate the voices of their disabled members. The conversation below has been lightly edited for clarity and length.