http://phoebeholmes.com/2011/12/23/being-retarded/
This blog post really struck a cord with me. I have worked with children and adults with varying cognitive and developmental deficits, and I could not agree with this woman more. So many people use the word “retarded” casually, with disdain and disgust. I know the word is technically still part of the DSM, but I have made a conscious effort to remove the word from my vocabulary altogether. I think it is important for people to help end the use of the “R” word—if you hear it and laugh or just don’t say anything, you’re saying to that person “I’m okay with you mocking individuals who were born different”.
