Fighting for YES!: The Story of Disability Rights Activist Judith Heumann

by Maryann Cocca-Leffler, Vivien Mildenberger (Illustrations), Judith Heumann (Afterword)

From a very young age, Judy Heumann heard the word NO. When she wanted to attend public school, the principal said NO. When she wanted her teaching license, the New York Board of Education said NO. Judy and people with disabilities everywhere were tired of hearing “NO.” In the 1970s, an important disability rights law, Section 504 of The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, was waiting to be signed. Judy and other disability-rights activists fought for “YES!” They held a sit-in until Section 504 was signed into law. Section 504 laid the foundation for the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was established thanks in large part to the ongoing work of Judy and her community. Along with a personal reflection from Judy herself, this biography captures the impact and influence of one of America’s greatest living activists.

Genres: Picture Books, Disability, Biography, Nonfiction, History, Childrens, Activism

48 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2022

About the author

Maryann Cocca-Leffler of NH, is the Author and Illustrator of over
60 books for children. Maryann’s book, Janine (2015) and its new sequel, Janine and the Field Day Finish (2016), were inspired by her daughter, Janine. Together they have developed a corresponding website, www.janinesparty.com with a mission to help change public perception of children with disabilities. Other books include, A Homemade Together Christmas, Bus Route to Boston and Bravery Soup.
Now a playwright, Maryann wrote a play based on her Princess KIM books. Princess K.I.M. The Musical won a National New Play Festival in 2012 and has had sold out performances on the East and West coasts. Princess K.I.M. The Musical is now represented by Stagerights.com, a licensing agency in LA to bring the play National.

Maryann grew up in the Boston area (read Bus Route To Boston!) and attended Massachusetts College of Art and Design where she received a BFA in Illustration. Her very first book, Thanksgiving at the Tappletons’ written by Eileen Spinelli, was published in 1982 and has been re-released in 2015 as a classic. When not in her studio, Maryann is traveling, visiting schools and attending her play.

If you are interested in a school visit, please check out the VISITS link on my website:
www.MaryannCoccaLeffler.com
www.JaninesParty.com
www.PrincessKimTheMusical.com

Reviews

[Kirsti · Rating 5 out of 5]

"When other people see you as a third-class citizen, the first thing you need is a belief in yourself and the knowledge that you have rights. The next thing you need is a group of friends to fight back with."—Judy Heumann

Appealing, inspiring, deeply interesting book about the disability rights activist. Imagine a principal telling a wheelchair-using kindergartner that she can't enroll in school because she's a fire hazard. Imagine a school that segregates all the disabled kids in the basement. Imagine a principal who doesn't allow a wheelchair-using graduate to receive her diploma on stage in front of an audience. Imagine a school administration that refuses to accept a highly qualified teacher because her need to use a wheelchair allegedly makes her a danger to students. I hope we never go back to the bad old days.

[Hannah Showalter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such good info about disability rights and beautiful artwork as well!

[Kim G · Rating 5 out of 5]

YES!!! Representation matters

Amazing history on how we eventually got the ADA. Judith has been a fighter since she battled polio & it left her in a wheelchair.

Beautifully written for school age kids.

[Marjorie Ingall · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great art, great subject! But MUCH MUCH MUCH too much text (with too much info-dumping and in too didactic a tone) to make this an effective picture book for most families and classrooms. BUMMER. (The middle-grade version of Judy’s story, Rolling Warrior, is more potent for its intended audience.)

[Katie Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I so wish I had this book as a kid. I did not learn about Judy until I was in college. Seeing this book brings me joy! Having a future where kids learn about disabilities early on, gives me hope things can become better for all people with disabilities.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully illustrated picture book bio about Judith Heumann and her challenges as a person who used a wheelchair after contracting polio at 18 months. It illustrates the way people with disabilities were ignored and discriminated against in the 50s and 60s. In April of 1977 Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which has been introduced in 1973, was finally signed after national-wide protests. The law required federally funded entities be accessible to people with disabilities. Heumann played an important role in the passage and implementation of this legislation, a precursor to the ADA.

[Jessica Stransky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book on Dr. Quiroa's wakelet and found out it was an honor book for the Orbis Pictus Award 2023. I read it as an ebook after checking it out from my local library. This book immediately reminded me of All the Way to the Top: How One Girl's Fight for Americans with Disabilities Changed Everything, the foreword of Jennifer Keelan. The narration is very similar, telling about how the weren't accepted into school and couldn't get around town easy before the ADA. In this story, I like how it talk's about Judy becoming a teacher because it's a mirror for kids that show they can have the jobs they want even with disabilities. The illustrations looked like paintings with lots of pastels. It was a bit longer for a picture book, so I recommend it for 2nd-4th graders.

[Alysa Fenner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a powerful read—will do full review when I get my hands on a physical copy.

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

This picture book biography is a 3.5 for me. Having read an earlier version of activist Judith Heumann's life story for an older audience, I was pleased to see that this one covered similar territory but in a simpler, even more relatable way. With its softly-colored yet lively illustrations created with gouache and digital media techniques depicting many of the barriers faced by Heumann and others like her as well as their activism and triumphs, this picture book will be a revelation to many young readers as well as some of the adults in their lives. After all, there are many individuals who have only a narrow conception of what civil rights entails and very little, if any, mention of this particular fight for civil rights and changes in the nation's laws. Most of the book focuses on Heumann's formative years and her work to get Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 signed into law. This eventually led to the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The experience of Judith's repeatedly hearing no from others as she grew up and having her dreams denied or being considered a fire hazard will resonate with young readers, many of whom may have heard no all too often as well although not about the basic necessities that were denied to Judy. It's clear throughout the story that Heumann had supportive parents who didn't let others limit their daughter's future. Judith was just as stubborn as she and her parents fought hard for her to attend school and be able to access buildings. It sometimes seemed as though every time one barrier was removed, another one took its place as Judith, a certified teacher, had to sue the New York City Board of Education in order to become a teacher there. Later, when legislation supporting the rights of disabled individuals stalled out, Heumann became one of the leaders in the movement, occupying the offices of the Health, Education, and Welfare department in San Francisco for 24 days until government officials finally responded. The Author's Note expands on the text, pointing out the importance of Camp Oakhurst and Camp Jened where the facilities were accessible, and disabled campers and counselors experienced independence and the possibilities of what life could be. It's worth noting that Judith and her fellow protesters were supported by church groups, the Salvation Army, and the Black Panthers. After her group's successful sit-in the world would never be the same again as the modification of federally-funded buildings to make them accessible was mandated. Add this one to a class collection devoted to civil rights or one dedicated to social activists or even one acknowledging that one person can make a difference. Perhaps a bit text heavy, necessary given the complexity of the subject matter, this title might be best shared aloud in several days' readings or read independently. Some students will be curious as to why these changes took so long.

[Laura Z · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fighting for Yes! tells the life story of Judith Heumann and the role she played in the fight to get the health and welfare regulations of section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act signed into law. This section of the law specifically prohibits the discrimination of people with disabilities and Heumann was a leading voice and a big part of the 1977 San Francisco sit in that changed the course of civil rights history. As a special education teacher, I work with 504s regularly to help students access curriculum through accommodations and health plans. Her story is one that all students should read because it shows how far society has come with accessibility for people with disabilities but also teaches great lessons in perseverance and grit. As a girl with a physical handicap that required a wheel chair, she faced discrimination and segregation from early childhood through adulthood. As a young college graduate with a teaching degree, she had to fight to be allowed to teach in New York City because they did not believe she could teach in a wheelchair. She became an advocate for all people with disabilities and her story is a great example of what can be done when you work hard for what you believe.

This is a picture book biography with a great story that begins in Judith’s childhood and takes us all the way to the signing of 504. The illustrations are great at complimenting the text and helping to tell the story of the challenges she faced to get an education and work as an adult. The illustrations are opaque water colors (gouache) with light hues throughout. The pictures contain a diverse representation of race, ability, gender, and ethnicity throughout the book that ties to the story wonderfully. Both the text and illustrations work together to show how equity is so much different than equality. Throughout the story the pictures show the challenges Judy faces to do simple things like enter buildings or ride transportation, but they also show how easily she is able to succeed when these simple adjustments are put into place. One example is when she was finally able to attend high school in a school with wheel chair accessibility. It is a great story of grit and perseverance but also a reminder that as a society we need to remember that just because we all have different needs it does not mean we are not equal. Equity is about creating an even playing field for all.

I read this book as part of an informational text unit for a graduate studies class on youth literature. I chose it because I was interested in Judith’s story but also because it received great reviews on both Kirkus Reviews and School Library Journal. The reviewer for the School Library Journal called it, “A solid addition for the activism section of biography collections, or any shelf on women who made a difference in the realm of accessibility and equity.” I also think it would be a great mentor text for students at all ages because it offers a great opportunity to talk about equity and other subjects. For younger students, it would be a great addition to social-emotional lessons on equity. The examples in the book of how Huemann was treated by others offers some great opportunities for discussion on equity and the creation of equitable classroom cultures. For older students, I think this is a great reference text for a social studies project on activism and civil rights or as a biography text. In addition to great examples in the text, the book also has an Authors Note at the end that gives more history on both 504 and Huemann’s life as well as a list of sources that could be used for students compiling a report on a specific topic related to the book (civil rights, inclusion, or equity).

[Sarah Jensen]

Book Review: Fighting for YES!: The Story of Disability Rights Activist Judith Heumann by Maryann Cocca-Leffler, illustrated by Vivien Mildenberger, with an afterword by Judith Heumann

Fighting for YES!: The Story of Disability Rights Activist Judith Heumann is a compelling children’s biography that highlights the life and achievements of Judith Heumann, a pivotal figure in the disability rights movement. Authored by Maryann Cocca-Leffler and illustrated by Vivien Mildenberger, this book not only chronicles Heumann’s journey but also serves as an empowering narrative for young readers about advocacy, resilience, and the importance of fighting for one’s rights.

Narrative Style and Structure
Cocca-Leffler employs a straightforward and engaging narrative style that effectively communicates Heumann’s life story to a young audience. The structure of the book is chronological, outlining key events in Heumann’s life, beginning with her childhood challenges and progressing through her significant contributions to disability rights. The prose is clear and accessible, making complex issues surrounding disability and activism understandable for children. The inclusion of direct quotes and anecdotes from Heumann’s life adds a personal touch that enhances the narrative’s authenticity and relatability.

Illustrative Contribution
Vivien Mildenberger’s illustrations significantly enhance the storytelling experience. The artwork is vibrant and expressive, capturing the emotions and struggles depicted in the text. Mildenberger uses a palette that reflects both the hardships and triumphs of Heumann’s journey, depicting scenes of activism, community, and celebration. The illustrations serve not only to engage young readers visually but also to reinforce the themes of empowerment and determination that permeate the story.

Themes of Advocacy and Resilience
At the heart of Fighting for YES! are themes of advocacy, resilience, and empowerment. The book emphasizes the importance of standing up for oneself and others, illustrating how Heumann’s advocacy led to significant changes in policies affecting people with disabilities. It presents a robust message about the power of collective action and the necessity of fighting for justice, making it a relevant and impactful read not only for children with disabilities but for all young readers. The narrative encourages children to recognize their ability to effect change in their communities.

Cultural and Educational Significance
This biography serves as an essential educational resource that introduces young readers to the history of the disability rights movement and the challenges that individuals with disabilities have faced. It provides a platform for discussing broader themes of civil rights and social justice, making it suitable for educational settings. The inclusion of an afterword by Judith Heumann herself adds depth, allowing readers to connect directly with the activist and understand the ongoing relevance of her work.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Fighting for YES!: The Story of Disability Rights Activist Judith Heumann is a beautifully crafted and inspiring book that highlights a vital chapter in the history of social justice. Maryann Cocca-Leffler’s engaging writing, combined with Vivien Mildenberger’s vibrant illustrations, creates an enriching reading experience that celebrates Judith Heumann’s legacy. This book is an invaluable resource for educators and parents seeking to teach children about activism, resilience, and the importance of advocating for oneself and others. By sharing Heumann’s story, readers are empowered to embrace their voices and strive for change, reinforcing the notion that everyone deserves equal rights and opportunities.

[Madison Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

1. age range (1st-4th)
2. When going to school, Judy was told that she was a fire hazard because of her wheelchair; actually, no school would allow her to go to a public school. So, they had a tutor come to the house for schooling. She eventually got to go to a real school; a school that was only for those who were physically disabled and all of them were put into the basement away from the “normal” kids who were upstairs. There was a place where Judy felt included and accepted, a summer camp for kids with disabilities. It wasn’t until high school that Judy could go to a real school. At graduation, she had to be clunked up the stairs to get her award and was even covered by the principal. Even at college, there was a lack of accessibility for those with disabilities, so she became active in politics to fight for disability rights. The Board of Education even refused to give her a teaching license because she was disabled even though she took all of the classes, tests, etc. So she sued, winning her case and being allowed to get her teaching license. During the week she taught, and on the weekends she was an activist. She then gained hope when she found Section 504 which made it law for people with disabilities to be accommodated and accepted. She eventually worked in Washington D.C. fighting for the passing of Section 504. When it wasn’t passed soon enough, many people who believed in disability rights protested for its passing, known as the 504 sit-in where they waited for days before 504 was signed. After 24 days, it was signed.
3. I chose this book because this was the first children’s book I’ve seen that focuses on the rights of people who have disabilities.

[Smichel]

From curbs to ramps, from obstacles to access, Judith Heumann’s picture-biography describes the challenges as well as the possibilities of life in a wheelchair. More importantly, her personal note at the end of the story urges readers to work together and fight for their own YES. As a child in New York City, Judith was excluded from kindergarten because a wheelchair was a fire hazard. In public school, she was assigned to a classroom in the basement with the other “special-ed” kids. After college, she was denied a teaching license because she was a “danger to the students.” These experiences stimulated her spirit of public activism and influenced the passage of Section 504, “No qualified individual…will be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” Judith Heumann’s story humanizes the legislative numbers and letters that protect individuals with disabilities (504, ADA, IDEA), and her experience inspires others. Most of the watercolor illustrations foreground Judith and her wheelchair, she is surrounded by multi-abled, multi-cultural, and multi-generational supporters. They carry signs, they raise fists, and they amplify her message, “disability rights are civil rights.” Fighting for YES! is a well-crafted story, it reinforces the importance of adaptations and sparks conversations about fixing problems. Additional resources include a note from Judith, a timeline of achievements and detailed citations. Recommended for ages 8-10.

[Tiffany S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wish that her story was taught more or that I knew about her back when I was growing up. In this book, Judith shares her experiences, always hearing the word NO. Each illustration showcases how simply inaccessible the world was: how inaccessible buildings were (with only stairs) or how public transport simply was not accessible at the time. Not only that, when she had dreams and aspirations she was working hard to achieve, there again would be an obstacle.

When she wanted to attend public school like her siblings, the principal said no. When she decided to become a teacher and pursue her teaching license, they did not believe in her ability to teach because of her disability. She was told no. It was high time that Judy and other people with disabilities were told YES. In the 1970s, an important disability rights law, Section 504 of The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, was waiting to be signed. Realizing how incredibly important this would be for current and future generations, Judith and other disability rights activists held a sit in until it was signed into law.

It is because of her work that I was even able to get an IEP. This book is incredibly valuable not only to educators and parents but also to show the future generation that resilience and advocating for oneself and for others is incredibly important as everyone deserves equal rights and opportunities.

[Kristen M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This picture book biography of disability advocate legend Judith Heumann will make you stand up and cheer for her bold activism, defiance, and tenacity! This biography goes hand in hand with the recent documentary, Crip Camp, also featuring Judith Heumann. Do not miss either!

I was 16 when the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law in 1990. I really can't envision what life must have been like before that critical legislation. I can't believe that before then - people like Judith were rallying because she was denied access to SCHOOL due to her use of a wheelchair.

Her parents were also advised to send her to an institution due to her polio-induced paralysis. Unbelievable! She ultimately was allowed to go to public school, continued on to college, and became a teacher. She promptly sued the NYCDOE when they tried to block her teaching license, due to her wheelchair and she WON.

[Joan · Rating 3 out of 5]

While the book was fairly well written, especially since it included a thoughtful comment from Judith Heumann, I wasn’t so impressed with the artwork. Coming from Los Angeles I found it pretty jarring to look at a double spread map of where the disabled protests took place and discover that apparently LA is now in Arizona and San Francisco is on the state border between Nevada and Utah! Either make it clear that it was hypothetically all over the country, or make it accurate. Using a map as a base for the illustration implies accuracy. I also didn’t like how defeated Heumann always looked as a child. I also was left with questions on her life, which isn’t that unusual in the limited room n a picture book biography. I do think they should have mentioned why she ended up in the wheelchair in the main part of the book, not just the author’s note. Recommended until something better comes along for juveniles.

[Hannah Ketchum · Rating 5 out of 5]

As someone who has individuals within their family who are physically handicapped to where they cannot attend some events due to not being able to get their due to no ramps or elevators, I truly want to see all these rules come into play. I think that every where should have to be handicapped accessible which I know most places are, but not all are. As well as being able to get a career no matter what it is and not be discriminated against just because of them being handicapped and in a wheelchair. These individuals in wheelchairs hear the word no very early on and I am so glad that ADA came into play so that these individuals are able to get free appropriate education without being discriminated against due to their disabilities. I had never heard of Judith until reading this story so this story about her truly opened my eyes to what individuals in a wheelchair truly face.

[Peacegal · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars--This is an informative and powerful picture book biography that focuses upon the early days of the fight for equal access to public spaces by Americans with disabilities. Because she used a wheelchair, young Judy Heumann was first prevented from attending school, we shockingly learn, and was shut out from so many other aspects of everyday life that many people take for granted. But because she and other people had the courage to speak out against this injustice and continue fighting even when discouraged, things began to change.

Each page is filled with people and active scenes (although the wording on the protest signs often seems a bit too modern for their time period), and a section at the book's conclusion lets readers hear from the real Judith Heumann.

[Cindi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew of Judy, and some of her adult work, before this book, but I didn't know of her childhood. I enjoyed learning more about her, but I also found myself frustrated and angry as I read. So much senseless, unfair, discrimination. So many fixable barriers. Discrimination and barriers I face as well, even today.

I am proud of Judy and thankful for her and her family. I am grateful for the work she put in, and sacrifices made, with fellow advocates and friends to fight for disability rights. I deeply appreciate the results of the 504 and ADA laws. However, we still have so far to go. The fight isn't over! Keep speaking up, keep fighting, and maybe we will one day see the world Judy has fought so hard far. A world that is fully accessible for all people.

[Liz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Shame on me for never knowing about Judy Heumann before this book. Her persistence and hard work led to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 getting signed into law, which paved the way for the Americans with Disabilities Act. I wish the illustrations were more realistic since it's a non-fiction book about a person who is still alive and there are many photos of. I can't believe not that long ago the NYC Board of Education wouldn't give her a teaching license for being a "danger to students." She participated in the longest nonviolent occupation of a federal building in US history. Wow! A very long picture book biography compared to others.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fighting for Yes is a brilliant introduction to the life of disability activist Judith Heumann, the history of disability rights in the USA, and how Heumann directly impacted laws that improved lives for disabled people across the USA. It's a great way to learn about all of these things, and the gentle illustrations really keep the whole thing grounded. Heumann's note at the end is a great addition, as is the author's note.

Also, as a disabled reader I feel like I'm always wary about reading disability related picture books because of how ableist they sometimes are, but this one is handled wonderfully. It's exactly what I would want (other than my issues with person-first language) from a picture book related to disability.

Highly recommended!

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great biography of Judith human. Judith was the main drive-in getting disability laws passed that made sure that people with any type of disability have the same freedoms as those with no disabilities. It would ensure that anyone or any entity, who receives money from the federal government, must make things ADA or handicapped accessible. This is a fantastic biography because it points out all the time Judith was told no. It had nothing to do with Judith as a person but more with her special accessories. I think this book will help kids understand that you can still be different and be fantastic. Differences are a good thing not a bad thing.

[Michelle Tuite · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading 2025
Book 62: Fighting for YES!: The Story of Disability Rights Activist Judith Heumann by Maryann Cocca-Leffler; Freckleface Strawberry by Julianne Moore; Ogilvy by Deborah Underwood

A trio of picture books I grabbed at the library after hearing that they were being challenged at federal government schools. The Fighting for YES! book lead me to the full length memoir about Judith Heumann, which was excellent, review to follow.

Review: After reading these books, I am hoping that there is a review committee and that all are kept on shelves for kids to enjoy. My rating 4⭐️ for each.

[June · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rounded up because of the message of activism and inclusion.

As Joan pointed out the map of nationwide protests, made no sense and I believe would cause confusion for children with LA looking like it is in Arizona, San Francisco in either Nevada or Utah... (Actually, only two of the 9 signs appear to be on the correct states) Hopefully, corrections can be made in future copies.

I, also, agree with Joan that it would have made the story more powerful to have when and why Judith became unable to walk in the main story.

Backmatter also gives credit to the Black Panthers and Salvation Army in supporting the 504 Sit-in, which supports Judith's note of including everyone.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book as an adult reader for the AR Diamond Book Award. I absolutely love this story about Judith Heumann (a woman that most young kids probably have never heard of). It is recommended for grades 1-4, but really has the content and details (disabilities, Vietnam War, laws and their numbers, etc.) for an older reader. I think both the Diamond list AND the Charlie May list could benefit from this wonderful book. This is the kind of book that gives the reader a bit of hope during uncertain/dark times--it's what we all need right now. Beautiful story.

[Beth Bissmeyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fighting For YES! gives us the story of disability rights activist, Judith Heumann, covering her childhood where she was regularly denied access to public education up to her leading successful campaigns for important disability rights legislation. Maryann Cocca-Leffler's text and Vivien Mildenberger's beautiful illustrations effectively portray Heumann's lifelong fight for the rights of disabled people and encourages the reader to explore how they, too, can work for change.

[Josie Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book the most so far out of any of the other books I have read. This is a book I can really relate to with having a disability. I could not imagine being alive during that time period and going through those struggles. I am so glad I can receive the accommodations for my disability to help me with my learning. I really recommended this book to anyone because it really helps educate a person just about the struggles people can have and the change in time period as well.

[Vera Elwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great intro to disability rights and the power of protest for young readers. Judy Heumann's story deserves to be read and understood by people of all ages. Hopefully this book will spur dinner time conversations that may lead to the parents looking further into Judy's story as well. I appreciated the additional readings offered in the back of the book. The art style was cute without being infantilizing, which is a trap many children's books about disability fall into.

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

At 18 months, Judith had polio. When the disease left, she could not walk. In 1952, when it was time to go to school, she was denied a place, because of her wheel chair. She heard nos in many other places. When New York City denied her a teaching license, she sued and won. She continued to advocate for access for all people when she wasn't busy teaching. Heumann was a key person in gettingthe 504 Rehabilitation Act of 1973 passed.

[Shanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great book for learning about the fight for disability rights and one woman who was instrumental in that change. Judith Heumann is a hero and I’m so grateful for her contributions! Also, she wrote a note at the end which encourages kids to fight for what they believe in and continue fighting for equal rights for all people.

Mia’s 2nd Year of Books: Day 147

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