"HEY you, you're such a retard," is a common phrase used to insult a person with intellectual disabilities. But why? Mental retardation was a term introduced by the American Association on Mental Retardation in 1961. The term started as a medical term that has turned into a common insult.
Upset, frustrated, and disappointed in people is how I felt when I was called the R-slur in the past - a common insult I was called throughout high school. Every time I was called the R-slur I didn't understand why. My differences make me who I am, and I'm special. All people like me want to be treated like a normal human being.
The definition of dehumanizing is the psychological process of demonizing the enemy. Why are we with intellectual disabilities the enemy? A Special Olympics article wrote that 70% of social media posts are negative toward people with intellectual disabilities; 60% of those negative posts contain the R-slur.
I want people to stop using that word, and it's time that people notice us for who we are, not who people think we are. If someone asked me, "What can people do instead of using the R-word?" my answer would be to focus on my abilities and who I am, not my disabilities.
I am a daughter, Athlete Leadership Council president, coach, athlete, and friend. I am loving, caring, hard-working, passionate, and special! As the Special Olympics campaign states, "Let's spread the word to end the word."
The following poem was written by my Recreational Therapist and I during a session to express how I feel about the R-slur.
Your Words, My Feelings
By Rhea Scott and Nicole Fritch
The puzzle pieces in my head,
They fit, but not like yours, I said.
I learn a little slower, see,
And life's a bit harder for me.
But then the word, a cruel, sharp dart -
"Retard" - it tears right through my heart.
Like a punch that leaves a bruise,
A silent pain that I can't refuse.
Frustration boils, a fiery sting,
Why can't they see the joy I bring?
Anger flares, a burning coal,
Disappointment takes its toll.
High school hallways, a gauntlet run,
That awful word, tossed like the sun,
Blinding, burning, making me small,
Wishing I could just disappear and fall.
"Retard," they laugh, a mocking sound,
While my spirit slowly drowns.
Do they even know the weight it bears?
The silent scream, the hidden tears?
Educate yourself, I beg and plead,
Learn what that word can truly breed!
Think before you speak, please be aware,
Of the damage that your words can share!
Be thoughtful, gentle, understand,
A helping hand, a listening hand.
We all deserve a little grace,
A smile, a kindness in this place.
Words are weapons, sharp and keen,
They cut so deep, they're rarely seen.
They stick with you, a lasting brand,
Shaping the person, understand?
Leave a good impression, kind and true,
Instead of hurt, let kindness bloom for you.
Let your words be gentle, soft, and light,
And fill the world with hope and love so bright.
