Members of the Oklahoma House of Representatives took the r-Word pledge during their session today at the Oklahoma state capitol. Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry proclaimed March 3, 2010 as “Spread the Word to End the ‘r’ Word Day” in Oklahoma. Leading the pledge was Kerrie White, 16-year-old Noble High School sophomore who has a sister with multiple disabilities. Kerrie was invited to speak to the House by Scott Martin, District 46, Republican. Oklahoma legislators welcomed White, her sister and other family members at the beginning of today’s session.
Students across the nation recognized this day by taking the “My Words Matter Pledge”.
“We want to make everyone aware how hurtful this word can be,” Kerrie said. White and other students in Noble will be passing out posters and stickers to other students today.
The “Spread the Word to End the ‘r’ Word Day” brings awareness that using the words “retard” or “retarded” to mean something stupid or bad is hurtful to people who have disabilities and the people who love them.
Not only does it perpetuate prejudice and discrimination towards people with disabilities, but simply because when its used in an ugly way this word is just as cruel and offensive as any other slur or hate speech.
My Words Matter Pledge by Jenna Glatzer © 2004
I pledge that I will not use the words “retard” or “retarded” to mean
“stupid.” I understand that this is hurtful to people who have disabilities
and people who love them, so I will be careful with my words.
I will also try to remember to pay attention when other people use
these words, and I’ll ask them to stop.
Students may copy and use Glatzer’s pledge to start “Spread the Word to End the ‘r’ Word Day” Campaign’s in their own schools.
According to the 2005 U.S. Census Bureau, 604,245 Oklahomans, 19.0% age 5 and over, have some form of disability. Approximately 50,000 people with developmental disabilities live in Oklahoma. This group is also the most inclusive and diverse, it includes; all ages, genders, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations and socioeconomic levels.
For more information on “Spread the Word to End the ‘r’ Word Day” or to find out more about this grass roots effort visit The “R” Word Campaign Website at:
http://www.therword.org