Take the original R-Word “My Words Matter” Pledge by Jenna Glatzer:
“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. “
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NOTE: This site is an information resource. We believe the discussion should take place in schools, at work and every place this word is heard and found offensive. Any comments that do not reflect that effort or do not include a valid email address will not be approved.
The “r” Word Campaign © 2007-2015, Rick & Wanda Felty – online since April 2007
it should never be used. no matter what. and if you work with them you should understand how much it would mean to them if everyone would stop saying the ‘r’ word. and rather than TRYING .. you should stop….
i have never liked the ‘r’ word. but everyone always tells me it’s just a word. it hurts to be called that even if you don’t have the disabilty. most people use it to be ‘funny’ or sound ‘cool’ but it’s not that at all. people need to grow up. and these days in school and other places it is used way to much. i just don’t understand. i pledge to never say the ‘r’ word.
i am 22 years old and i have 15 month old baby boy with down syndrome. and he is not a retard!
i did not know it hurt people till now i am so sorry to all the people i have hurt.
I am a waitress, and there is a wonderful group of developmentally disabled adults, and the amazing people who care for them, that come in for lunch (which is where I learned about this site and the “stop the word” concept). I think this website/pledge/concept is absolutely spectacular and amazing! I truly feel the tolerance has been going WAY to long, and it’s about time it is stopped for good!! Break the silent acceptance, and say it (STOP!!) loud and proud!! Spread the word to stop the word!! I have a 10 year old daughter and a 6 year old son. My daughter has, since she began going to school, tried her hardest to be involved with, and help the developmentally disabled children in her school. She sits with them at lunch and helps the special-ed teachers feed them and help them with what ever they need, and never portrays or treats them as “different”. Best of all she REALLY enjoys the interaction, and being able to make a difference in someones life! She, like myself, pledges to spread the word to stop the word. Actually, she will be submitting her own pledge. My son has NEVER used the R word (and thankfully I don’t think he even knows the word exists!) REMEMBER:We as parents are our children’s first teachers, and we as adults are role models. Our children, and the children around us learn from us. If YOU don’t use the R word, you help these children to NOT learn it!! When an adult stops the word, it stops a child from learning it, and it helps take a step to stop the cycle! Besides, when you use the R word, it makes you sound unintelligent, so be smart! I told my mom about this, as well, when I caught her using the R word, and since then I have not heard her use it, either!