. >> the black panthers provided food, delancy street, many other groups were helping us. >> reporter: dissatisfied after a meeting with local leadership, some of them decided to fly to washington seeking a meeting with president carter. >> they've made it as easy as possible on those travelling in this group, especially those in wheelchairs. >> reporter: their determination prevailed. >> it showed that a small group of people can actually make a big change. and it shows that people taking to the streets and demanding their rights really does work. >> reporter: crip camp is oscar-nominated for best documentary feature. it puts the spotlight on the largely forgotten early fight for disability rights. 50 years later, there remains a call for disability justice. >> i can't use the bathroom on an airplane. that i have to be carried to my seat is still a big issue. and employment in the disabled community is woefully low. >> reporter: he could be the first disabled director to win an oscar statutet. >> and you can watch the oscars this sunday here on abc 7. our coverage begins at 10:00 am.