I agree with you, Susan. This is not about being "p.c.", just as calling someone stupid is not about being "p.c."...it's about being respectful, non-judgmental and open to differences.
I must admit, the word "retarded" is difficult to stop using, as it is a word that begins in childhood (without much thought to its meaning) and is used out of habit. This is the exact reason for the awareness day, I presume, that people use the word out of habit and without thinking. The last time I used the word, I remember clearly...I was describing something I did as "retarded" to my friend...who just received her Master's degree in Special Education. The second I used the word, I realized how immature, insensitive and foolish I sounded. I was poking fun at myself, but I do believe there are words that should not be used, no matter what the reason.
The word "disabled" comes just as naturally in our language, and can be taught to kids to say; just as we tell them it is not nice to call someone stupid or other names.
It is also important to know that there are many disabilities that are "invisible", meaning, not obvious to to everyone. Physical disabilities are (usually) more obvious and observable, but not always, compared to mental disabilities.
In my mind, the (mis)use of slang words have a purpose, and it is usually in regards to a topic that people are afraid of, or intimidated by, or do not understand. Mental disabilities are one of these topics that create discomfort in people, as there is a lack of education and awareness.
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I agree with you, Susan. This is not about being "p.c.", just as calling someone stupid is not about being "p.c."...it's about being respectful, non-judgmental and open to differences.
I must admit, the word "retarded" is difficult to stop using, as it is a word that begins in childhood (without much thought to its meaning) and is used out of habit. This is the exact reason for the awareness day, I presume, that people use the word out of habit and without thinking. The last time I used the word, I remember clearly...I was describing something I did as "retarded" to my friend...who just received her Master's degree in Special Education. The second I used the word, I realized how immature, insensitive and foolish I sounded. I was poking fun at myself, but I do believe there are words that should not be used, no matter what the reason.
The word "disabled" comes just as naturally in our language, and can be taught to kids to say; just as we tell them it is not nice to call someone stupid or other names.
It is also important to know that there are many disabilities that are "invisible", meaning, not obvious to to everyone. Physical disabilities are (usually) more obvious and observable, but not always, compared to mental disabilities.
In my mind, the (mis)use of slang words have a purpose, and it is usually in regards to a topic that people are afraid of, or intimidated by, or do not understand. Mental disabilities are one of these topics that create discomfort in people, as there is a lack of education and awareness.
March 22, 2009 - 6:15pmThis Comment
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