Sometimes we say things we do not mean, or maybe we do but do not realize how hurtful it can actually be. Certain words we say have a different meaning to them. The words “retard” or “gay” hurt people’s feelings because they are often used in negative contexts.
Spread the Word to End the Word is an ongoing effort to raise the consciousness of society about the dehumanizing and hurtful effects of the word “retard(ed)” and to encourage people to pledge to stop using the R-word.
For those of you who do not know about Spread the Word to End the Word, annual awareness day is the first Wednesday of the month of March. However, people can spread awareness year-round.
Just like any other issues in the world, people have their own opinions on the R-word or any other offensive word for that matter. If you ask me, a person who occasionally uses the R-word, I truly believe the word can really hurt one’s feelings and may cause more damage than we think.
Every day kids are bullied and called names when they are at school and now with social media, bullying continues even at home. The R-word is a word bullies use relatively frequently and kids get really upset and do not know the repercussions.
If we were to teach kids to end the negative use of the word, it would become more of a habit to not use the word.
Like I stated before, I am unfortunately a frequent user of the R-word, but I do not say it to hurt anyone’s feelings, I say it out of habit and mostly in reference to myself. Regardless, it is a bad habit and I wish I did not say it as much.
For those of you who use the word like I do, try not to. I know you do not mean to hurt people’s feelings but it does a lot more damage than you may think. You may not know who is around you when you’re saying it.
For those of you who say it to intentionally hurt someone’s feelings, stop. Be an example for kids and for those around you. We want to thrive in this world by making it a better place and to be nicer to each other.
