GSA Colleagues,
The National Persons with Disabilities community mourns the tragic loss of Judy Heumann, a life-long public servant who is widely considered to be the mother of the disability rights movement. She passed away on March 4, 2023, at the age of 75.
In 1949, Judy contracted polio and began to use a wheelchair. Her elementary school opposed her attendance because they considered her a "fire hazard." Later in life, she passed her teaching tests in New York, but failed the medical exam. After suing the state Board of Education, Judy became the first teacher in New York who used a wheelchair. This became just one of many significant battles she won against systemic discrimination and segregation experienced by people with disabilities.
Judy was on the forefront of activism that led to landmark legislation and policy reform, including Section 504, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act, and the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. From 1993 to 2001, Judy served as the Assistant Secretary for the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services in the Department of Education. From 2002 to 2006, Judy became the World Bank's first Adviser on Disability and Development. From 2010 to 2017, President Obama appointed Judy as the first Special Advisor for International Disability Rights at the State Department. In Washington D.C., she became the first Director for the Department on Disability Services.
A tremendous communicator and international advocate, Judy gave TED talks, appeared in many documentaries, wrote two books, and hosted an award winning podcast. GSA was thrilled to have Judy as a keynote speaker for the 2021 Interagency Accessibility Forum.
Judy Heumann was a true civil rights leader. She gave a fierce voice to her community, demanding that people no longer be overlooked or underserved and are recognized for their many contributions to American society.
GSA, especially the Persons with Disabilities Special Emphasis Program, honors Judy Heumann as a fellow federal employee. May we all draw inspiration from her amazing life and continue her work by uplifting accessibility every day in our public service.
We send our sincerest condolences to Judy's family and to all who loved her.
Merrick E. Krause
Deputy Chief Human Capital Officer
Executive Sponsor, Persons with Disabilities Special Emphasis Program
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