Canadian disability rights advocate Taylor Lindsay-Noel is optimistic that her involvement in the upcoming movie “Being Heumann” will help shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing everyday facilities. Known as Access by Tay online, Lindsay-Noel shares reviews on the accessibility of restaurants and businesses in Toronto, with some of her video content reaching over a million views.
Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 32-year-old initiated creating videos to showcase the obstacles encountered by individuals with disabilities when visiting various establishments. Through her online presence, Lindsay-Noel urges restaurants and businesses to provide accurate details regarding their accessibility features.
Expressing her belief that Toronto has the resources to be more inclusive, Lindsay-Noel highlights the significant barriers faced by people with disabilities, such as the lack of online accessibility information, inaccessible washrooms, and entryways. However, she notes that many of the establishments she reviewed have reached out to her, expressing their commitment to enhancing accessibility.
Having suffered a spinal cord injury at the age of 14 that left her paralyzed from the chest down, Lindsay-Noel had to redefine her identity beyond being a gymnast. Embracing various opportunities, from advocating for disability rights to establishing her tea company, Lindsay-Noel’s journey led her to audition for “Being Heumann,” a biographical film centered on American disability rights activist Judith Heumann.
The movie, directed and written by Academy Award winner Sian Heder, revolves around the historic sit-in protest led by Heumann in 1977. Lindsay-Noel, who secured a non-speaking role in the film as one of the protesters, considers this experience a unique and memorable opportunity.
Reflecting on her time on set with Heder, known for her work on “CODA,” Lindsay-Noel praises the director for creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all cast members. She emphasizes the importance of addressing ableism, a prevalent issue faced by individuals with disabilities, advocating for open and understanding conversations as a means to combat misconceptions.
The film “Being Heumann” highlights the significance of Heumann’s activism in the disability rights movement, showcasing the determination and challenges faced by disabled activists during the sit-in protest. Lindsay-Noel applauds Heumann’s efforts, acknowledging the pivotal role played by the broader community in supporting the cause.
As Lindsay-Noel prepares to attend the film’s premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, she remains dedicated to amplifying the voices of individuals with disabilities and fostering a more inclusive society through her advocacy work and online platforms.