FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 8, 2023
Washington, D.C. – Today, people around the world gather in person and virtually to honor the life of Judy Heumann, a beacon of light and a leader. The Bazelon Center celebrates Judy's life by attending her service as well as sharing our favorite memories of Judy and how she touched our lives.
“Almost 20 years before I joined the Bazelon Center, I met and worked with Judy in the Clinton Administration at the Department of Education. From Judy, I watched and learned how to be a powerful advocate inside of the federal government. When I got to Bazelon in 2018, we reconnected and working with Judy outside of the government was even better. Not too long ago, I was in Zoom meeting with Judy, other advocates, and government officials. When the meeting ended, I paused and reflected on what had just happened. Because of Judy's participation in the meeting, we advanced a set of issues that normally would've required at the very least multiple meetings, and more likely years of work. I was in awe. I thought to myself, now that's how to get things done. This is part of what I will carry forward."
– Holly O’Donnell, CEO
As a veteran of the ACT UP movement of the 1990s, I can say that Judy Heumann and the brave activists who took over federal offices in the 1970s to protest the government’s failures to enforce disability rights laws were an inspiration to activists of later generations engaging in direct action and civil disobedience to end the AIDS crisis in this country. We knew our history and we knew Judy.
Later, I saw firsthand Judy’s reach as an advocate for disability rights worldwide. I was fortunate to participate in a panel discussion with Judy and others about voting rights for people with disabilities. Judy’s presentation about the reforms states and localities in the United States were making to ensure that voter registration and polling places were accessible to all, including to people with disabilities, commanded the rapt attention of our audience of voting officials from other countries. Now in her role as a senior advisor to the federal government she protested against, I know she followed up with meeting attendees, to the benefit of people with disabilities everywhere.
– Lewis Bossing, Senior Staff Attorney
“Two weeks ago, I was reading a book to my daughter called, “No! My First Book of Protest.” Reading about Judy Heumann to my daughter filled me with joy.”
– Brit Vanneman, Staff Attorney
“I met Judy Heumann last summer before I started my evening law school program. At the Vice President’s residence, I spoke about what it meant to me to be one of the first generations born into the ADA and Olmstead vs. Lois Curtis precedent. I talked about how vital integration, inclusion, and our rights being upheld is, as well as how we still have a long way to go to fight for our rights. After my talk, I saw Judy Heumann was also there. At first, I was nervously trying to figure out how to say thank you and hello to someone with such a groundbreaking legacy. She immediately approached me and held my hand so tight, full of love. She told me how proud she was of me and wanted to ensure we texted. Judy loves texting and reaching out to mentor people.
During my first year as a law student, I worked with the Bazelon team to stop a Supreme Court case that would negatively impact Medicaid and social safety net programs. Judy did not hesitate to help in this advocacy. When things felt the most difficult, she affirmed that I was a great advocate and would be a great future lawyer. That was the last time I spoke to her extensively, but I will hold on to her encouragement and warmth forever. She helped change the world for us all, and I hope, along with other emerging leaders she has encouraged, we can carry the baton to keep progress moving forward for our communities. I do not take it lightly that she encouraged us all to stay in it for the long haul.
– Jalyn Radziminski, Director of Engagement
