Just called one of my friends out on the "R" word

meghans30

He said that some times he acts so retarded. . . 

He has a niece with special needs. My son has special needs and I HATE that word. I commented "What does the word retarded mean to you? I hate that word."

We're pretty close and he is pretty opinionated, so I think he'll be ok with it.

Maybe I was out of line? 

#6

You were NOT out of line.  What you asked/said was great.  Ive never thought about asking people what they think of the word.  I just say that its a horrible word to say and very hurtful to some.  

Your friend is the one out of line using the R word like that.  If he is not ok with it he will just have to get over it.  You (and a whole bunch of other people) are NOT ok with him or others using the R word.   

CubbyMama

I'm really forcing myself to speak up about things like that, whether it's racist/homophobic comments or jokes, or just people being jerks.  I've always been too timid to say something and then later regretted it, so now it's kind of like a resolution of mine, but it's hard...I think you were brave to say something!

akimbo

Please don't ever question if you are out of line about this.  I think your question is fantastic.

This word is used to describe something we perceive to be stupid, valueless, defective and unimportant. It?s used casually and without the consideration that when this same word is applied to a person with an intellectual disability, it carries with it the same perceptions.

 

I offer the argument the intent of it's use is irrelevant.  In a culture where we embrace diversity and the unique traits we bring to the table, in a world where bigotry, sexism and racism have no defense, how does the tacit agreement with applying hurtful language to those least able to defend themselves fit in?