“The way ‘retarded’ has been used for at least
20 years is as a synonym for ‘stupid.’ If you’re
so sensitive about someone using a word that
bothers you that you aren’t capable of
understanding the intent behind it, you need
to grow a thicker skin.”
Right. It’s being used as a synonym for
stupid. And loved ones of people with
disabilities do not want them associated with
the word ‘stupid.” As for the thicker skin
comment, have some heart: If a parent tells
you that a word is painful, if people with
intellectual disability say the word is hurtful,
is it so hard to quit using the word?
“I do think people should be cautious of what
and how they say things but it’s not the end
of the world.”
Oh, to be sure, there are many, many more
pressing issues. But this is something that
very much matters to parents of kids with
special needs. Our kids have so many
challenges to overcome in this world; using
respectful language is just one thing, one very
simple thing, people can do. And so, we will
continue to speak out about it. And we will
continue to ask: Please, just use another word. LET MAKE THE WORLD A BETTER PLACE FOR YOU AND I, “PEACE”