March 2, 2016, is “Spread the Word to End the Word” day. Words are powerful, and hearing the R-word, “retard” or “retarded,” makes people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families and their friends feel like less valued members of humanity. The R-word is just as cruel and offensive as any other slur.
We ask that you help us change the conversation and help eliminate the demeaning use of the R-word from today’s popular youth vernacular by replacing it with the word “respect.” We are asking for your help in creating a more accepting world for people with intellectual disabilities and all those people that may appear different, but have unique gifts and talents to share with the world. Language affects attitudes. Attitudes impact actions. Make your pledge to choose respectful people first language at www.R-word.org.
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