Judy Heumann, disability rights activist, dies at age 75

WASHINGTON (AP) — Judy Heumann, a renowned activist who helped secure legislation protecting the rights of disabled people, has died at age 75.

On Saturday, her death in Washington, D.C. was reported on her website, as well as on social media. The American Association of People with Disabilities confirmed her confirmation. It was not possible to immediately reveal the cause of her passing.

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Heumann is the name of the woman who, at 2 years old, lost her ability for walking after she contracted polio. “mother of the disability rights movement” Website a tribute to her advocacy of the rights and interests disabled people, through demonstrations and legal actions.

Her lobbying efforts led to legislation such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act. From 1993, when Clinton was inaugurated, she served as assistant secretary of U.S. Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services. She remained there until 2001.

Heumann was also involved in the passage of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This was ratified by Heumann in May 2008.

Her contributions to the Berkley Center for Independent Living and the Independent Living Movement, as well as her participation on boards of many related organizations, including the American Association of People with Disabilities and the Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund were significant.