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Be a Fan of Dignity, Stamp out the use of the R-Word!
The "R-word” or "retard” has found a place in common language and seems to be accepted by so many.
The word hurts, even if it is not directed at a person with intellectual disabilities. For too long, people with intellectual disabilities have had to overcome the challenges society has put forth through stereotypes. It is time for a change and you can help.
Special Olympics has decided to lead an effort to publicly address this language and the negative attitudes and behaviors associated with the use of the pejorative "retard.” Help make a much needed change which will bring acceptance and inclusion to our community – don’t say the R-word. When you hear that word, think about Louisiana athlete Virgil Atkinson, who won a gold medal at the Special Olympics World Games in China on September 2007. Virgil lives independently, sings in his church choir and has a job. Or think about the 134,000 people in the state who have intellectual disabilities. Approximately 200 million people around the world are in this population and it is the largest disability population in the world. Perhaps you know someone?
For more information on how you can make a difference, check out these links:
TO PLEDGE YOUR SUPPORT TO ERADICATE THE "R-WORD" visit www.r-word.org
 Contact our office to get the official R-Word Button! Copy this picture and paste on your website or Facebook profile. Download the R-Word Brochure.
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