Currently Browsing: Opinions /Top Stories
Spread the word to end the “word”
Graphic by Ciera Thompson
Written by Kai Shultz - Freelance Writer
The word is “retard” or “retarded”, but it doesn’t have to be. I, like many others from Gilbert High School, from Arizona, and from around the world, understand that to use the word “retard” (whether innocently or not) is hurtful. It’s an ugly, archaic word that is offending not just to those who have intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities, but also to the families that have sacrificed an incredible amount of time and energy to ensure that their sons or daughters can lead normal and successful lives.
And yet I’m exposed to it every day. I hear it not just from students and teachers, but also from news anchors and coaches, from celebrities and politicians (most recently from Chief of Staff Rahm Emmanuel, who, in a meeting with several Democratic Party members, called them “[expletive] retarded”), and even from my own parents. The word “retard” has been mainstreamed and marginalized. Its ubiquity points to the fact that we, as a nation, have become insensitive to the struggles of a minority group that deserves nothing less than to be included and accepted in society. And to eradicate the word “retard” or “retarded” from our daily speech is the least we can do to create an environment where every individual with a disability feels welcomed and respected.
No one in my immediate family has a disability. I don’t pretend to understand the pain that many individuals with special needs have had to endure throughout their lives. But I can and do sympathize with their struggles. I’ve listened to many students and adults with a disability speak about the pain they’ve had to endure from being called “retard” or simply overhearing a conversation with the word “retarded” used in it. I’m not suggesting that those who use the
word are using the word maliciously or even intentionally, but I am suggesting that to continue using the word in daily conversation would be tantamount to continuing to use the “N” word or any other racial slur.
I’ve seen the difference that a single phone call, an email, a high-five, or a simple ‘hello’ can make in the life of somebody with a disability. I’ve seen their tears, and I’ve felt their smiles. I’ve listened, reflected, and grown as a human being because of their joy, a captivating, humble, and genuine joy. And I’ve never once heard anybody with a disability complain about his or her mistreatment. As the founder and president of Gilbert High School’s Best Buddies chapter, a committee member for the Youth Activation Committee through Special Olympics Arizona, and a passionate spokesperson for those with disabilities, I can honestly say that I’ve never felt more content with my life than when I’m working within the special needs community. The individuals involved with Special Olympics and Best Buddies have the ability to truly change a person. I’ve been changed. And that is precisely why I encourage everyone and anyone to take the pledge at Gilbert High School on March 31 or at www.r-word.org to eliminate the word from daily speech and also to promote the acceptance and inclusion of those with intellectual disabilities. The new word is respect.
What's your stance on the 'R' word - "retard"?
- Never use it - I think it's offensive (43%, 9 Votes)
- Sometimes slips, but I too think it's offensive (43%, 9 Votes)
- I don't see what the big deal is (14%, 3 Votes)
- I use it, and will continue to use it; people need to get over it (0%, 0 Votes)
Total Voters: 21
Loading ...
March 26th, 2010 at 8:31 pm
I love this and agree with everything you mention. I am in Best Buddies at Campo Verde High School and have seen the difference it has made not only for the buddies, but myself as well. Thank you so much for taking the time to remind people what true kindness is all about. Also great job on the image.