Harriet McBryde Johnson (1957-2008) was a remarkable individual hailing from North Carolina, known for her impactful contributions as an attorney, disability rights activist, and author. Despite facing the daily challenges posed by her own neuromuscular disease, which necessitated the use of a powered wheelchair and constant care, Harriet devoted her life to championing the rights of disabled individuals, fighting for their freedom and agency in decision-making. In this article, we will delve into her inspiring journey, her advocacy work, and the lasting legacy she left behind.

Harriet McBryde Johnson's Advocacy Journey

Harriet's journey into self-advocacy began at a young age when she courageously fought to have an abusive teacher dismissed from her school. Recognizing the privilege afforded to her family due to their financial stability, which enabled her access to proper care and education, she embarked on a path of higher education. Harriet pursued a legal career, specializing in defending the rights of fellow disabled individuals and assisting them in securing Social Security benefits. In addition to her legal work, she penned a memoir titled "Too Late to Die Young," a novel called "Accidents of Nature," and contributed several articles to publications like the New York Times.

One of Harriet's most renowned endeavors involved a debate with Peter Singer, who argued for parents' right to euthanize babies with severe disabilities. Harriet fervently advocated for disabled people's right to live, aligning herself with the organization "Not Dead Yet," which opposes assisted suicide and euthanasia as forms of discrimination. In this debate, she emphasized that living with disabilities does not inherently entail despair; instead, it brings unique joys and experiences deserving of recognition and protection, just like any other person's life.

Conclusion

Empowerment, as exemplified by Harriet McBryde Johnson, manifests in both personal resilience and extending that power to others. Her life was a testament to this twofold empowerment. She used her limited and precarious privilege to safeguard not only her future but also the lives of countless others facing similar challenges. In a world that often seeks to marginalize individuals with disabilities, Harriet's pursuit of normality and visibility was a formidable battle. Her unwavering dedication to securing the freedom and rights of disabled individuals is nothing short of heroic. Today, her legacy lives on, continuing to inspire and influence generations, ensuring that all people can pursue happy and fulfilling lives.

Read more about Harriet McBryde Johnson's insights in her New York Times piece, "The Disability Gulag". Explore fellow disability rights expert Tom Shakespeare's profile on her here.