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 brains behind the campaign point at the fact that regarding people as retards highlights their inability. Furthermore, this is a developmental condition and the person is able to do so many other things. The affected persons are hurt by this reference causing them to feel condemned. With pledges from millions around the world, including celebrities, business leaders and politicians, a reversal and positive outlook is being adapted.
This campaign started in 2009 during a Special Olympics preparation event. The organizers indicated that there was need to place humanity or dignity of a person before his ability. By referring to people as retards, their developmental or cognitive inability takes prominence. Their experiences are as satisfying as those of normal people. Words should never be used to make them feel less human.
Pledges are registered on the official campaign website where you are required to give the name, residence city and country or state where you come from. You may add details about your organization or school, but these are optional. These details are filled on a prompt form with your commitment being displayed for the world to see. You are invited to sign in for a monthly newsletter containing calendar of events, news and more campaign information.
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 brains behind the campaign point at the fact that regarding people as retards highlights their inability. Furthermore, this is a developmental condition and the person is able to do so many other things. The affected persons are hurt by this reference causing them to feel condemned. With pledges from millions around the world, including celebrities, business leaders and politicians, a reversal and positive outlook is being adapted.
This campaign started in 2009 during a Special Olympics preparation event. The organizers indicated that there was need to place humanity or dignity of a person before his ability. By referring to people as retards, their developmental or cognitive inability takes prominence. Their experiences are as satisfying as those of normal people. Words should never be used to make them feel less human.
Pledges are registered on the official campaign website where you are required to give the name, residence city and country or state where you come from. You may add details about your organization or school, but these are optional. These details are filled on a prompt form with your commitment being displayed for the world to see. You are invited to sign in for a monthly newsletter containing calendar of events, news and more campaign information.
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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