Fighting for Yes!: The Story of Disability Rights Activist Judith Heumann
XX min read
| Author(s) | Maryann Cocca-Leffler |
|---|---|
| Illustrator(s) | Vivien Mildenberger |
| Age Group | 6-9 |
| Publisher | Abrams Books for Young Readers |
| ISBN | 978-1419755606 |
| Year | 2022 |
From a very young age, Judy Heumann heard the word “No.” When she wanted to attend public school, the principal said “No.” When she wanted her teaching license, the New York Board of Education said “No.” Judy and people with disabilities everywhere were tired of hearing “No.” In the 1970s, an important disability rights law, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, was waiting to be signed. Judy and other disability rights activists fought for “YES!” They held a sit-in until Section 504 was signed into law. Section 504 laid the foundation for the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was established thanks in large part to the ongoing work of Judy and her community. The book includes a personal reflection from Judy Heumann herself.
