In memory of Judy Heumann, a stalwart ally and beacon for the Korean disability movement, we offer our deepest condolences.
On 4 March 2023, Judy Human passed away. An iconic activist in the history of the American disability movement, Judy Heumann founded disability advocacy organisations in the United States and internationally, leading the way in advocating for disability rights around the world. As a result, she led the passage of disability rights legislation, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Her activism was documented in her memoir, "Being Heumann".
Judy Heumann was not only an inspiring activist for the Korean disability community but also a steadfast ally in our struggles, most notably adding her voice to the demand for the full implementation of the right to independent living in South Korea by being one of the earliest to join the Korean disability community's call for the South Korean government's 2021 deinstitutionalisation roadmap to be made in a manner consistent with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities(UN CRPD)(http://thekdf.org/notice/1410).
She has also expressed her deep solidarity and support for the ongoing subway action in South Korea. In an interview with a media outlet last year, referring to the actions she has led in the past, such as blocking Manhattan streets with wheelchairs to amend the Rehabilitation Act. She said, "It is important for our society to know that disability rights issues are not just for people with disabilities. We need more solidarity from more organisations and individuals in the society." (https://m.hankookilbo.com/News/Read/A2022040613060005470)
Recalling the way of freedom and equality that Judy Heumann paved, the Korea Disability Forum will continue to fight for the rights of disabled people.
