The Power of Believing in Competence: Leadership Lessons
Judith Heumann was a disability rights activist and a leader in the movement for disability inclusion. Her leadership can be characterized by her belief in the inherent competence for all individuals, regardless of their disability status. She was a vocal advocate for the rights of people with disabilities for over four decades, made significant contributions to the disability rights movement and was one of the activists from an amazing documentary series on Netflix: Crip Camp: A Disability Revolution. With the recent passing of Judith, we need to reflect on just how powerful of leader she was for not only woman, but for the disabilities community. She taught the world so much and in her own way.
One of Judy's key beliefs was that ALL individuals have the right to an education that is tailored to their specific needs and abilities. Her work advocating inclusive education, which seeked to create learning environments that are accessible and accommodating to all students drove change and important conversations. Judy also was a pioneer for disability rights within the workplace. She advanced the rights for people with disabilities in the workplace and really was an early pioneer around inclusive and diverse workforces.
Judith was a grassroots activist. A voice that was powerful. Her leadership has been shaped by her belief in the inherent competence of all individuals, and her commitment to create a better, more inclusive and equitable society. The team at Building Wings was privileged to work with her over that past few years to help re-tell her story in an upcoming release, Rolling Warrior for the Readtopia Curriculum in yet another way so that even emergent learners can be inspired by her lifelong work. So students can see themselves in books and be inspired.
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"I wanna see feisty disabled people change the world." Judy Heumann
Her legacy will continue to inspire and guide the future for us all. Believing in better. Always believe that anyone can. Take the many lessons that Judy shared with us all and shine your light through your leadership, through your actions and through your heart. So stay feisty and presumed competence for all.