Canadian disability rights advocate Taylor Lindsay-Noel, also known as Access by Tay, is set to feature in the upcoming movie “Being Heumann,” aiming to further highlight the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing various facilities.
Lindsay-Noel, a prominent figure in Toronto, reviews the accessibility of restaurants and businesses in the city through her online platform. Her videos, some of which have garnered over a million views, shed light on the obstacles that people with disabilities encounter daily, especially following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Emphasizing the importance of accurate accessibility information, Lindsay-Noel urges establishments to provide transparent details about their facilities. Despite acknowledging Toronto’s potential for inclusivity, she notes the prevalence of inaccessible entrances and washrooms as significant barriers.
The 32-year-old, who suffered a life-altering injury during her gymnastics career, underscores the need for improved accessibility standards. In light of her experiences, Lindsay-Noel stresses the importance of proactive measures by businesses to enhance accessibility.
Lindsay-Noel’s involvement in “Being Heumann,” a biopic centered on disability activist Judith Heumann, represents a meaningful opportunity for her. The film, directed and written by Academy Award winner Sian Heder, is scheduled to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.
The movie portrays the historic 28-day sit-in protest led by Heumann and others at the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in 1977. This demonstration, which demanded the enforcement of disability rights under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, played a pivotal role in advancing the rights of individuals with disabilities.
Reflecting on her participation in the film, Lindsay-Noel describes it as a unique experience that holds personal significance. She commends Heder’s inclusive approach on set and highlights the importance of addressing ableism, advocating for honest and open discussions about disability-related issues.
By leveraging her platform to raise awareness and promote inclusivity, Lindsay-Noel continues to champion the rights and accessibility needs of the disability community.
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