Student social movement to ban the “R” word

By Andrea Gusty, CBS 11 News Reporter
KTVA
Article Last Updated:03/27/2008 12:22:31 AM AKDT

It’s a social movement that may surprise you:

Anchorage students are banding together to encourage people to quit using the word “retarded” in a negative light, by banning the “R” word all together.

Fifty years ago, the word retarded was the clinically accepted term for people with developmental disabilities. Over the years, it has become hurtful and derogatory. Now, some local students want it banned.

Walk the halls of East High and you’re likely to hear that’s retarded, a phrase kids have latched onto to describe something that they don’t like or something they think is stupid or odd.

“I hear it at least 30 times a day–just a ridiculous amount,” said Jose Delreal, Junior at East High.

For many, it’s just another word used in casual conversation. But for people with developmental disabilities, the “R” word is hurtful.

“It makes me kind of sad, if I hear it. I would be feeling sad. I think it needs to completely stop,” said Jonathan Tucker, Student at East High.

Several students agree. That’s why they are joining a national movement to ban it. They say the “R” word is as hateful as the “N” word and other slurs.

“We are all equal, no matter how big, small, smart or fast anyone is. What we are trying to do is show that we are all human beings,” said Alivia Feliciano, Senior at East High.

It’s being called the social movement of this generation, the latest example of student activism. Over the last few years, Anchorage’s kids have become more aware, and more involved with issues of race, violence and discrimination. Most recently, Service High students tackled the issue of race.

“Students are willing to confront those, and really challenge adults, and challenge their peers to not use those things,” said Anchorage School District Superintendent Carol Comeau.

“We’re not naive enough to think that everyone is going to listen, but we do hope it will raise some awareness,” said Delreal.

For these young people, raising awareness is the first step to changing first Anchorage, then the world.

This week, the citywide Student Advisory Board brought a resolution to the school board, in hopes that the curriculum department would develop new electives to educate all kids about the challenges and the strengths of students with disabilities.

VIDEO