the person who gave me their ipad forgot their password

If they don't know their own Apple ID and/or password, they can get help from Apple Support.

Have them see:

If you forgot your Apple ID email address or phone number - Apple Support

or

If you forgot your Apple ID password - Apple Support

or if that doesn't help, have them contact Apple Support.

If you received a used iPad from someone they didn't prepare it properly for you to use. If you don't know the right credentials or they can't remove the device from their account, the device is useless to you and Apple will not help you. Only the owner who set up the device can help you.

Assuming you know this person, this is what should have been done to the iPad before they "gave" it to you --> What to do before you sell, give away, or trade in your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch - Apple Support

If you don't know or can't reach them, recycle the iPad as you'll never ever be able to use it.

See this user tip about used devices --> The All Too Common SAD Reality of Buying … - Apple Community

They don't have what? They can, by the way ask Apple to wipe the device IF and only IF they prove original ownership and that would require they show Apple the original purchase receipt which clearly shows the iPad Serial Number on it. Apple won't do this for you. But they will for the original buyer with the proper documentation.