New film focuses on disability activist
A new film opening Oct. 26, “Music Within,” focuses on the true story of Richard Pimentel, who came home from the Vietnam War with a hearing impairment and became a disability activist.
The synopsis from the film’s Web site, http://www.musicwithinmovie.com/, says:
“’Music Within’ is based on the inspiring real-life story of Richard Pimentel (Ron Livingston) a primary activist behind the Americans with Disabilities Act. After serving his country in the Vietnam War, Richard loses his hearing after a stray bomb explodes in his bunker. On his return home, he witnesses first hand the discrimination towards vets and the disabled community. He sets out to change people’s perceptions by fighting for equality and helping to begin a movement that culminated in the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act. This act has helped improve the lives of disabled people around the world, including his own.”
Beth Haller, Towson University