The way a society refers to people with disabilities shapes its beliefs about and responses to them. The word “retard” has long been a harsh reminder of the ridicule and negative stigma directed toward people with intellectual disabilities. Unfortunately in society today, the “R-word” has found a place in common language and seems to be accepted by many. Although it is often not directed at a person with intellectual disability, it is used in a negative fashion, to demean or highlight someone’s lack of ability – a direct reflection on what people view as the capabilities of people with intellectual disabilities.

Labeling and humiliating others is unacceptable in this day and age and Special Olympics is spearheading a campaign to encourage people to be a fan of dignity and stop using the R-word. The Special Olympics R-word campaign is one aimed to reach people who may not understand the significant dehumanizing and discriminatory impact, as well as the perpetuation of negative stereotypes that result from the continued use of the word. Special Olympics is asking people to show their support for the R-word campaign by going to www.r-word.org and pledge to no longer use the word.

In North Carolina, many local celebrities such as Roy Williams, UNC Men’s Basketball coach and Cam Ward, Carolina Hurricanes goalie, have also endorsed the campaign by allowing their likeness to be used in publicity to be distributed throughout the state. View a complete list of North Carolina R-word celebrities at www.sonc.net.

Help make a much needed change which will bring acceptance and inclusion to our community – don’t say the R-word. Be a fan of dignity!

For more information, contact Megan O'Donnell, vice president of communications for SONC, at 919-719-7662 ext. 106 or modonnell@sonc.net.