Canadian disability advocate Taylor Lindsay-Noel, also known as Access by Tay, is set to play a part in the upcoming film “Being Heumann,” aiming to raise awareness about the ongoing accessibility challenges faced by individuals with disabilities.
Lindsay-Noel, a Toronto native, gained popularity for her online reviews highlighting accessibility issues at various establishments in the city, with some of her videos garnering over a million views. Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, she started creating content to shed light on the obstacles encountered by people with disabilities when patronizing public venues.
Through her social media presence, Lindsay-Noel urges restaurants and businesses to provide accurate information regarding their accessibility features. She emphasizes the importance of inclusive practices, stating that many places fail to offer detailed accessibility information online, with obstacles such as inaccessible restrooms and entryways posing significant challenges.
The 32-year-old, a former national gymnast who became paralyzed from the chest down at age 14 due to a sports-related injury, underscores the need for inclusivity in her hometown. Lindsay-Noel expresses that individuals with disabilities often face extensive hurdles just to venture outside their homes.
Reflecting on her personal journey and the diverse experiences life has offered her, Lindsay-Noel decided to audition for a role in “Being Heumann,” a biopic centered on American disability rights activist Judith Heumann. The film, directed and written by Academy Award winner Sian Heder, is scheduled to kick off the Toronto International Film Festival.
The storyline of “Being Heumann” revolves around a historic 28-day sit-in protest at the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare in 1977, advocating for the enforcement of disability rights legislation. Lindsay-Noel describes the film as a significant portrayal of the challenges faced by the disability rights movement, acknowledging the importance of Heumann’s activism despite the arduous nature of the mission.
Having secured a non-speaking role in the movie, Lindsay-Noel participated as one of the protesters in the sit-in, deeming the opportunity a unique and memorable experience. She commends Heder for fostering an inclusive and supportive environment on set, further emphasizing the need to combat ableism and promote honesty in discussions surrounding disability issues.
With a commitment to advocating for accessibility and inclusivity, Lindsay-Noel continues to use her platform to engage in candid conversations about disability and foster understanding within the community.