You may not be aware of the damage this word can cause when used, So I'm blogging to spread the word on how this word hurts. TODAY is the day to spread the word, to educate you, that YOU can help make a difference to end the word. Take the pledge at www.r-word.org to put an end to the word. If not now, WHEN? if not you, WHO? It starts with one voice, one person to make a stand. The word might not be hurtful to you, but it is to me. Show respect and pledge.
According to the dictionary, the "R" word means : to make slow, delayed, development or progress or an action/process etc; to hinder or impede.
Retarded
is an ACTUAL medical term that has been twisted into an offensive slang
term. And because Lincoln has Trisomy 21 he automatically fits under
the medical definition. The "R" word has been used widely in todays society to degrade and insult people. Lincoln, however is NONE of those
negative things implied when you casually throw that word around. So
next time you are tempted to use that word please stop and ask yourself
what you are really trying to say...because the "R" word isnt just a word, it is offensive, and derogative. Asking people not to use this word is not censorship, or freedom of speech, its about consideration, dignity, and respect for people with an intellectual disability. When you
say “you're a "R" ” you not only risk offending or hurting
someone, but frankly you sound unintelligent. It may seem overly
sensitive, but it hits close to home, and I am standing up for not only Lincoln, but everyone else who is being labeled by this hurtful outdated term. I hope we might someday live in a world where the R Word doesn’t exist. I know
that most people mean no harm by it and you may feel its not really
offensive because you are using it in a humorous
manner, but you're wrong. Its offensive to say "You're so retarded" So
please, dear casual user of the "R" word, remove it from your every day
vocabulary. I will stand up to my pledge, and ask you to join me to please end the word. I urge you to share this blog, because together, WE CAN.
Please picture this sweet face next time,
and pick a different word :) ... because to me, he IS A BIG DEAL!!
A way today is celebrated is by wearing yellow and blue... AND fun/funky/mis-matching/wild socks. You
will probably get asked, 'What's with the socks?' ... and that question will give you the perfect opportunity to explain that
3:21 is World Down Syndrome Day and that you are celebrating all the
wonderful things about people with Down syndrome while helping to
advocate for individual rights and respect.
I have to say, that I am completely over whelmed with all of the photos of peoples socks!! Or nails, Or an article shared today to raise awareness that TODAY is World Down Syndrome Day. So thank you to everyone who showed some sort of support today. It is greatly appreciated.
