http://www.r-word.org/
The word 'retard(ed)' hurts millions of people with intellectual disabilities and their families. Take the pledge and help promote the new R-word: Respect.
An email I received from my cute cousin (and close enough to be a sister), Dana, who has a sweet boy, Michael, with Downs Syndrome:
"I admit that I silently cringe every time I hear someone use the words “retard” and “retarded” to negatively describe someone or something extremely disagreeable or offensive. In truth, Michael and those like him are diagnosed as mentally retarded, so to those who love and care for people who have intellectual disabilities, it feels like a swear word when used in a harsh and negative manner. I have a great deal of respect and gratitude for those who are truly “retarded” for all they have sacrificed to give the rest of us “normal people” so many incredible opportunities for learning and growth in this life. Maybe we can all encourage others and ourselves, if need be, to practice a different adjective to describe people who bug us…!
Just something to think about and talk to your kids about….
Love you all,
Dana
Dana
P.S., …and don’t worry! I’m not sending this to you because I think you have a problem with this…haha!"
A great clip from youtube: