Canadian disability advocate Taylor Lindsay-Noel, also known as Access by Tay online, is set to play a role in the upcoming movie “Being Heumann.” Lindsay-Noel’s aim is to shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with disabilities when it comes to accessibility.
Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 32-year-old from Toronto began creating videos reviewing the accessibility of various restaurants and establishments in the city. Her content has garnered over a million views, emphasizing the obstacles that people with disabilities encounter in their daily lives.
Through her social media presence, Lindsay-Noel urges businesses to provide accurate details about their accessibility features. She points out that many places lack online information about their accessibility, highlighting issues such as inaccessible restrooms and entryways as significant barriers.
Despite the challenges, Lindsay-Noel has seen a positive response from the establishments she has reviewed, with many reaching out to discuss improvements. Born and raised in Toronto, she believes that the city has the potential to be more inclusive for all its residents.
Lindsay-Noel’s journey into advocacy began after a gymnastics accident at the age of 14 left her paralyzed from the chest down. Determined to redefine her identity beyond sports, she transitioned into entrepreneurship, launching her own tea company and engaging in discussions about disability rights.
Her involvement in “Being Heumann,” a biopic centered on American disability rights activist Judith Heumann, marks a significant milestone for Lindsay-Noel. The film, directed and written by Academy Award winner Sian Heder, will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival.
The movie portrays Heumann’s pivotal role in a 28-day sit-in protest at the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in 1977. Lindsay-Noel, who plays a protester in the film, sees this opportunity as a unique experience that aligns with her advocacy work.
Lindsay-Noel commends Heumann’s efforts in advancing disability rights, acknowledging the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in asserting their needs. She emphasizes the importance of addressing ableism and promoting honest conversations about disability issues on various platforms.
The activist expresses gratitude for the inclusive environment created by Heder on set, emphasizing the director’s ability to make everyone feel valued regardless of the size of their roles. Lindsay-Noel looks forward to attending the film’s premiere and continuing her mission to advocate for accessibility and inclusivity.