“Oh my gosh, that is so RETARDED!”
My head snapped back. I saw two women talking, one holding a lock of the other’s hair back to see something the woman was pointing out behind her ear.
To be honest, I knew the person who spoke the word. She is active in her church, playing the piano in the church band. A nurse, who always has a compliment for those around her, every time I see her.
I turned to face forward. I was at a “Favorite Things” party. A party where each person brings a gift for three people, each gift not to go over $7, to be handed out to names we receive at random from a hat.
A close friend was beginning to pass her gifts out. A close friend who has a child with Down Syndrome and a child with autism. A person affected by the R-word, as am I. She did not appear to hear the offense.
I focused my attention on her. And let her pass her gifts to waiting ladies.
And wondered, I thought nobody said that word anymore…
Today is Spread the Word to End the Word Day.
I pledged. As I do every year.
Why do I pledge? Why do I ask others to pledge?
Because the R-word is derogatory. And offensive.
“Mental Retardation” was a medical term in the past with a clinical connotation. However, the R-Word was used widely by society to degrade people with intellectual disabilities.
From the Spread the Word site:
Today the r-word has become a common word used by society as an insult for someone or something stupid. For example, you might hear someone say, “That is so retarded” or “Don’t be such a retard.” When used in this way, the r-word can apply to anyone or anything, and is not specific to someone with a disability. But, even when the r-word is not said to harm someone with a disability, it is hurtful.Because of this, Special Olympics, Best Buddies and the greater disability community prefers to focus on people and their gifts and accomplishments, and to dispel negative attitudes and stereotypes. As language has evolved, Special Olympics and Best Buddies have updated their official terminology to use standard, people-first language that is more acceptable to constituents.
I am thankful I do not hear children say the word. But every now and again, it pops up, and spoken in a way that is unnecessary. I am hoping the word will disappear. So I spread the word, because I sure do want to end the word!
If you would like to pledge, and spread the word the link can be found here:
I encourage you to do so.
And to recap:
That is definitely a cringe-worthy word! Ridiculous is an easy substitute. I’ll call out strangers, I don’t care. Just like the n word and using gay in a derogatory way, it’s not necessary. The English (American version) has many, many words. Thanks for this!🙌
Yes, I agree. There is no need to say it! You bet!
It is awful when people use the word ‘retarded’ in any situation. Among a lot of ignorant people it is just another general and frequently used adjective to describe someone who doesn’t share their opinion on something or because they are just different in some way.
Yes, or to express frustration – which is truly bizarre. In either case, there is just no need to use the word. The english language is filled with lots of other options.
Hate the word. And like King Ben’s Grandma I will call out anyone using offensive, derogatory words whether it be about additional needs, women, colour etc. You can do it in a nice way but you have to do it, sometimes people don’t even realise as it’s just a word to them. Educate at every opportunity. Change the world one person at a time
Yes, it’s not right. I did not want to take away from my friends moment, but I did address the woman at a later time. Hopefully she will choose a different one at a later time. You are right – one person at a time! 🙂
I pledged as you knew I would.
Thank you!
I’ll keep my ears open and educate when necessary. I can’t remember the last time I heard someone say it. I don’t think the kids do anymore.
Thanks! I was so surprised when I heard it spoken that day (last month!). I thought the time had come where the word was out. I don’t hear kids say it anymore either. Which is good.