Help Spread the Word to End the R-Word day- March 31

[nashnsegersmom]

It is time to “Spread the Word to End the Word.†Today, 31 March, events throughout the United States and around the world will make people stop and think about their hurtful and disparaging use of the word “retard.â€

Most people don’t think of this word as hate speech, but that’s exactly what it feels like to millions of people with intellectual disabilities, their families and friends. Using "retard" as a term of derision is just as cruel and offensive as any other slur. Also the use of "I am so retarded" is derogatory to those like my son, who have intellectual disabilities, and are anything but "stupid".

Go to the Special Olympics website for more information on this campaign and please help spread the word by forwarding this information to parents, teachers, students, and others who may benefit. thank you!

 

[bubbatd]

You beat me to it !!!

 

[nashnsegersmom]

amazing no one else posts though, eh? sad.

 

[PoodleMommy]

Didnt see this earlier here but read an article elsewhere on it this morning.

I think its a great idea... I really hope it has an impact... it is literally like nails on a chalkboard when I hear someone say it.

But most of these people who participate in the Special Olympics have a lot more heart and compassion than those people will ever have, so just remember when you hear it.

 

[wcladymacbeth]

Nah I think that's great. I didn't see it this morning. I try not to use words like that to describe other people, but sometimes I do slip and call myself that. I will definitely try to think about who that might hurt before I say it next time.

 

[vanillasugar]

Glad to see this!! I don't let it slide when people throw this word around (also "gay" gets me irked as well), I've been known to outright call people on their callous use of a word which should not be used, especially in that manner.

 

[FluffyZooCrew]

I'm definitely becoming more aware of the use of that word. I'll admit, I've been one to casually throw the word around when joking with others, or using it to describe myself. Never really thinking twice about it, of course.

But I do see the hurt and impact it causes, and how derogitory the word really is, so I am definitely becoming more fully aware of that, and making it a habit to remove that word from my vocabulary.

BTW, Nash is the most precious baby I've ever seen. I've told Grammy that before, he's just a bundle of handsomeness.

 

[bubbatd]

Thanks to those who are aware . I sure have learned a lot since Nash was born . No more "R" s here !

 

[Giny]

The R-word doesn't exist in our household....

Thank you for passing it on.

 

[Baxter'smybaby]

thanks for posting this--I can't tell you how it makes me feel when people so casually toss the word around...I have posted about my personal feelings about this in the past. It is something for others to be aware--thanks for helping to open others' eyes. It is very hurtful.