Words have power. Unfortunately, some of this power is negative. The r word pledge is a campaign against the use of retard or retarded to refer to people who are thought to be intellectually disabled. This name is considered derogatory and offensive. By avoiding such a reference, communities can accept the individuals easily. It creates the right attitude of a more accommodating society. It is also respectful and will spur the right actions towards these people.
The idea is to appreciate that each individual has unique gifts. The fact that someone cannot talk, walk or perform other duties like most people is not a reason to refer to him of her in a derogatory manner. Continued use of such words makes them part of mainstream speech. Gradually, the affected persons are isolated which affects their esteem and socialization.
The problem with the term retard/retarded is its use outside medical or clinical environment. Originally, it had a connotative meaning and was only used by doctors and nurses to refer to a clinical condition. It showed that the affected person had developmental challenges. Using it out of context makes the mentally impaired individuals to feel isolated and less valued. On the streets, it refers to a stupid or thoughtless person.
The hurtful aspect of referring to a developmental condition as retardation is the lack of appreciation of the special gifts such a person possesses. The focus becomes on what the person cannot do instead of what he or she is capable of doing. This action is hurtful and should be condemned. With more people pledging to eliminate such reference from ordinary speech, the trend will be reversed.
The campaign began in 2009 at a Special Olympics activation event. There arose the need to put the person before what he or she can do. Focus was to shift from cognitive or developmental inability and shine on his intrinsic value. It was a call to appreciate that such persons have satisfying experiences like every normal human being. Words should not be used to make them appear any less human.
One makes the pledge by registering on the official website for the campaign. You will be required to provide your name, city of residence and state or country of origin. Optional details to give include organization or school name and your age. By completing this prompt form, your commitment will be displayed on the site as part of a global awareness campaign. The website also releases monthly news, event calendar and campaign information through their subscription newsletter.
One of the phrases used in reference to people who are mentally impaired is, What is wrong with him? This campaign seeks to focus on ability. The fact that someone is using a wheelchair does not mean that he is incapable of so many things. Not everyone can run, draw, sing, swim, etc. That is not an indication of anything wrong. Mental impairment should be regarded in similar light.
As you make the pledge, you are also invited to share personal stories. It is these stories that highlight the need to take action. They motivate other people to view mental impairment as a condition rather than a problem. It gives the victims a positive outlook in life that allows them to feel valued.
The idea is to appreciate that each individual has unique gifts. The fact that someone cannot talk, walk or perform other duties like most people is not a reason to refer to him of her in a derogatory manner. Continued use of such words makes them part of mainstream speech. Gradually, the affected persons are isolated which affects their esteem and socialization.
The problem with the term retard/retarded is its use outside medical or clinical environment. Originally, it had a connotative meaning and was only used by doctors and nurses to refer to a clinical condition. It showed that the affected person had developmental challenges. Using it out of context makes the mentally impaired individuals to feel isolated and less valued. On the streets, it refers to a stupid or thoughtless person.
The hurtful aspect of referring to a developmental condition as retardation is the lack of appreciation of the special gifts such a person possesses. The focus becomes on what the person cannot do instead of what he or she is capable of doing. This action is hurtful and should be condemned. With more people pledging to eliminate such reference from ordinary speech, the trend will be reversed.
The campaign began in 2009 at a Special Olympics activation event. There arose the need to put the person before what he or she can do. Focus was to shift from cognitive or developmental inability and shine on his intrinsic value. It was a call to appreciate that such persons have satisfying experiences like every normal human being. Words should not be used to make them appear any less human.
One makes the pledge by registering on the official website for the campaign. You will be required to provide your name, city of residence and state or country of origin. Optional details to give include organization or school name and your age. By completing this prompt form, your commitment will be displayed on the site as part of a global awareness campaign. The website also releases monthly news, event calendar and campaign information through their subscription newsletter.
One of the phrases used in reference to people who are mentally impaired is, What is wrong with him? This campaign seeks to focus on ability. The fact that someone is using a wheelchair does not mean that he is incapable of so many things. Not everyone can run, draw, sing, swim, etc. That is not an indication of anything wrong. Mental impairment should be regarded in similar light.
As you make the pledge, you are also invited to share personal stories. It is these stories that highlight the need to take action. They motivate other people to view mental impairment as a condition rather than a problem. It gives the victims a positive outlook in life that allows them to feel valued.
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