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Americans are being challenged to consider their use of "R-word" or "retard"

From playgrounds to the "top rungs of our leadership, including our president," Americans have plenty to talk about and learn when it comes to stereotypes and how words can sting.
An unexpected and sudden spotlight on the Special Olympics, an organization that for more than 40 years has served and honored those with intellectual disabilities, comes less than two weeks before the nonprofit launches a new campaign: Spread the Word to the End the Word. http://specialolympics.org/

March 31 is being billed a "national day of awareness," a call to Americans to recognize and rethink their use of the word "retard," or as the organization would prefer, the "R-word."

"Most people don't think of this word as hate speech, but that's exactly what it feels like to millions of people with intellectual disabilities, their families and friends," a statement about the campaign reads. "This word is just as cruel and offensive as any other slur."

The push for increased respect is being spearheaded by young people who are collecting pledges or vows to not use the word at http://www.r-word.org/, and are leading online discussions on how people can get involved in this cause. Our choice of language frames how we think about others.

It is time to respect and value people with intellectual disabilities.
It is time to accept and welcome us as your friends and neighbors. To sign the pledge:

To read more:http://www.r-word.org/

http://specialolympics.org/

This is an ongoing pledge that should be fulfilled as often as possible.

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Comments, Suggestions and Stories

Alan Haggard San Diego, CA @ 05:12PM PT May 21
Pledge fulfilled May 21!

Agreed. I have not used this word since I was a child (at a time when I did not know any better), and IMO if you choose to use this word you are no more tasteful, intelligent, nor mature than a child. (No offense to those who happen to fit this demographic.)
Julie Greenspan San Diego, CA @ 05:08PM PT May 21

I think this r-word best fits the person speaking the word.
Andrea M @ 02:24PM PT May 21
Pledge fulfilled May 21!

Really great pledge and very much needed. I makes my blood boil when-ever I hear someone use the R-Word!!!!
Michelle Papaycik Auburndale, FL @ 03:13AM PT May 21
Pledge fulfilled May 21!

I hate the "r-word" just as much. How come today's society is only filled with homophobic, rude, derogatory word-using, unintelligent people!? I'm sooo glad to be a part of the Change.org community, because we aren't like that, and we help the world think like us.
Beth Johnson West Peoria, IL @ 03:17PM PT Mar 23
Pledge fulfilled Mar 23!

I hate "the r-word." I work with children who have intellectual disabilities, and it would make me ill to think of someone referring to them with this disgusting word.
leatrice brantley ft lauderdale, FL @ 03:09AM PT Mar 22

Initiated this Pledge!