Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin proclaimed March 7, 2012 as “Spread the Word to End the ‘r’ Word Day” in Oklahoma. This 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.
The U.S. Census Bureau estimates 20% of all Oklahomans have some form of disability. People with disabilities constitute our nation’s largest minority group. This group is also the most inclusive and diverse, it includes; all ages, genders, religions, ethnicities, sexual orientations and socioeconomic levels.
Many schools and students in Oklahoma, and around the nation, will be participating in efforts to bring awareness on this day.
Download the 2012 Proclamation (pdf). Follow these link for more resources;