Canadian disability rights advocate Taylor Lindsay-Noel aspires that her involvement in the forthcoming movie “Being Heumann” will raise awareness about the ongoing challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing various facilities. Operating under the moniker Access by Tay online, Lindsay-Noel produces content reviewing the accessibility of eateries and establishments in Toronto, with some of her videos garnering over a million views.
Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the 32-year-old started creating these videos to shed light on the obstacles encountered by individuals with disabilities when frequenting their favorite venues. Through her social media presence, Lindsay-Noel urges restaurants and businesses to offer accurate information regarding their accessibility.
Originally from Toronto, Lindsay-Noel emphasizes that the city possesses the resources to bolster inclusivity. She highlights the arduous task many individuals with disabilities face just to leave their homes. Lindsay-Noel points out the absence of online accessibility information for some venues, along with challenges like inaccessible restrooms and entryways.
After reviewing numerous restaurants, Lindsay-Noel notes that a majority of them reached out to her, expressing their intentions to enhance their accessibility features. The former national gymnast, who sustained a spinal cord injury at the age of 14, emphasizes the need to redefine one’s identity beyond athletics. This journey propelled her to explore various opportunities, including launching her tea company.
Motivated by her passion for disability rights advocacy, Lindsay-Noel auditioned for “Being Heumann,” a biopic centered around American activist Judith Heumann. The film, directed and scripted by Academy Award winner Sian Heder, is set to premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival. Lindsay-Noel secured a non-speaking role in the film, portraying one of the sit-in protesters during a historic protest in 1977.
The sit-in involved over 100 demonstrators, including disabled activists, advocating for the enforcement of regulations protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities. Lindsay-Noel praises Heumann’s pivotal role in the disability rights movement, acknowledging the challenges encountered during the protest.
Describing her participation in “Being Heumann” as a unique opportunity, Lindsay-Noel expresses gratitude for the inclusive environment fostered by Heder on set. She commends Heder’s inclusive approach, citing her previous movie “CODA” that touched on themes of family dynamics in the deaf community. Lindsay-Noel emphasizes the importance of addressing ableism and promoting candid conversations about disability to foster understanding and inclusivity.