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Youth Voices

Words have power and young people are using their voices to make that power count. Across communities and cultures, youth are speaking out against the use of the R-word and sharing how hurtful language affects their lives, their friendships, and their sense of belonging. Their stories are honest, personal, and rooted in a shared belief that everyone deserves dignity and respect. Hear their voices below as they call for understanding, inclusion, and a world where words are used to uplift, not harm.

Amanda Harrinauth

Turning the R word into the word RESPECT

Abbigale Griswold

Why is the R-word harmful and Offensive

Charlie Wilson

“I’m My Own Person”

Hiawatha Davis

Be Yourself. You Are Somebody.

Rhea Scott

Spread the Word to End the Word

Taylor Sims

“Different, Not Less”

Jennifer Hoover

R-word and people

Richard Connelly

Words Matter: Why We Must End the R-Word for Good

Marcelo Gonzalez

“Why You Shouldn’t Say the R Word”

Rebekah Geist

The Power Of The Tongue

Sara Byrd

Words have power—use them to lift, not hurt.

Claire Brendza

It’s a bad word.

Our Words

Advocacy and creative passion are key to Spread the Word and we are always looking for more ways to hear and amplify the voice of every member of our community. We want to hear your stories, your concerns and your opinions. And we want others to hear them as well. Send us your story of inclusion. Check out stories from our community below!”