Words Can Build and Words Can Break
Contributed by Stephanie Staples at Your Life Unlimited
Excuse me while I rant.
Twice this week, twice in a professional setting while in conversations, two different people used the word retarded in my presence. I know they did not mean to offend, I know that they were good people talking about a circumstance not at person but both of them were oblivious to the fact that the ‘r’ word is just not ok to use anymore.
It is hurtful and disrespectful, it’s exclusive and offensive to people with intellectual disabilities and to the people who care about them. I know that most people are not intentionally hurtful. It’s maybe just a habit, or something they never thought of from another perspective.
When I hear this word come from someone’s mouth, I cease to hear anything else they say. I simply have to open my mouth and gently let them know it’s just not cool to use that word.