The R-Word
I always cringe when I hear the words “retard” or “retarded”, no matter what the context. I am sensitive to the negative connotations of the R-word because of my daughter’s disabilities and want to do my part in raising awareness about ending the use of this highly derogatory word.
Today (March 2, 2016) is the 3rd annual day of awareness to “Spread the Word to End the Word.” Founded by 2 college students and supported by the Special Olympics, www.r-word.org is a campaign “intended to engage schools, organizations and communities to rally and pledge their support and to promote the inclusion and acceptance of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”
I took the pledge and you can too, because language affects attitudes and attitudes impact actions :
I pledge and support the elimination of the derogatory use of the r-word from everyday speech and promote the acceptance and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.
Let’s make a change together!
