The R Word

Did you know that by casually using the word “retard(ed)” to refer to an action as less than ideal you are making someone with an intellectual disability feel less than human - whether you mean to or not?

Spread the Word to End the Word_™ is an ongoing effort by Special Olympics, Best Buddies and our supporters to raise the consciousness of society about the dehumanizing and hurtful effects of the word “retard(ed)” and encourage people to pledge to stop using the R-word. 

Respectful and inclusive language is essential to the movement for the dignity and humanity of people with intellectual disabilities.  However, much of society does not recognize the hurtful, dehumanizing and exclusive effects of the word “retard(ed).” 

It is time to address the minority slur “retard(ed)” and raise the consciousness of society to its hurtful effects.

Pledge your support at www.r-word.org and to promote the inclusion and acceptance of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.