A Conversation with Judy Heumann

Speakers

Judy Heumann
Judy Heumann
Disability Advocate
Peter Blanck
Peter Blanck
University Professor, BBI Chairman

Description

Respected disability rights activist Judy Heumann and Dr. Peter Blanck discuss her experience of growing from a young disabled woman advocating for her rights to becoming a pioneer in the disability rights movement. She reflects on the political ideas and causes that were the roots of disability rights activism that began in the 1960’s, and how the era of bipartisanship has dwindled. She provides insight on how we can move forward when progress is more difficult to achieve compared to decades ago.

Ms. Heumann urges people with disabilities to continue advocating for themselves and one another, although it is more complicated than it has been in the past. She says that the disability rights movement needs to continue to evolve, whether by expanding in relation to the disability community or by engaging more people and embracing its growing diversity.

Summary

  • The political ideas and causes that were the roots of disability rights activism that began in the 1960’s, and how the era of bipartisanship has dwindled.
  • She provides insight on how we can move forward when progress is more difficult to achieve compared to decades ago.
  • Heumann urges people with disabilities to continue advocating for themselves and one another, although it is more complicated than it has been in the past.
  • She says that the disability rights movement needs to continue to evolve, whether by expanding in relation to the disability community or by engaging more people and embracing its growing diversity.