Special Olympics-Spread the Word to End the Word 2012

As a writer, I don't usually endorse censorship, but I don't promote/use ANY hate speech either. That's what the word retarded represents to millions. Have you ever heard anyone use this word to build someone up?? Like other hate speech we loudly denounce, the r-word reinforces painful, outdated and limiting stereotypes. Because of my son, who was wrongly judged to be intellectually challenged due to wheelchair use and limited motor skills/speech, I know firsthand the daily tough judgement faced by 200 million people plus because of ignorance and insensitivity fueled by the continued casual use of this word.

I choose to show Respect to others instead. What about you?

Words do hurt.

Banner courtesy of Special Olympics. Used with permission.

Judy Winter

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