"I will have accomplished my goals if we stop seeing the needs of people with disabilities as being special and different." Judy Heumann
Judy Heumann contracted polio as a child. As she was confined to a wheelchair, she was considered a "fire hazard" and was barred from school. Although she was finally allowed to attend in fourth grade, this was not to be her only struggle. As an adult, Heumann was denied a teaching job because of her disability. She eventually cofounded the world Institute on Disability, became Assistant Secretary for the office of Special Education, and created her own firm to implement public policy to integrate the disabled into society.
Judy Heumann's life experiences have strengthened her resolve to always live by her principles. An internationally recognized leader, advocate, and reformer commited to protecting the civil rights of the disadvantaged and disabled, Heumann is currently the special Advisor for International Disability Rights at the U.S. Department of State.
How has this inspired you. Can you assist others the way Heumann did? Let's hear your comments.