Being Heumann, a biopic following the life of disability rights advocate Judy Heumann, will be featured as the Opening Night Film of the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 10, 2026, at Roy Thomson Hall. Judy, who passed away in March 2023, was widely considered the “mother” of the disability rights movement due to her extensive advocacy work and commitment to supporting the disability community. She was also a key collaborator on the EDID-GHDI partnership grant and a member of the Council of Advisors.
In honour of Judy and fellow disability advocate Steve Estey, who also passed away in 2023, a grant was developed by the EDID-GHDI partnership. The Honouring Judy Heumann and Steve Estey Memorial Fund, which closed in February 2026, was awarded to four initiatives led by people with disabilities to strengthen the leadership and participation of women and girls with disabilities.
The film Being Heumann is directed by Siân Heder, and the role of Judy Heumann will be played by Ruth Madeley. The TIFF will take place from September 10–20, 2026. Tickets for the TIFF will go on sale on August 21, 2026, for TIFF members and on August 31, 2026, for the general public.