On March 3, 2010, the second annual “Spread the Word to End the Word” Day will be held around the nation.
“Spread the Word to End the Word” is a campaign created by youth, in an ongoing effort with Special Olympics and Best Buddies International, to engage individuals, schools, organizations and communities by raising the consciousness of society about the dehumanizing and hurtful effects of the word “retard(ed)” and encouraging everyone to stop using the R-word.
The day will be devoted to educating and raising awareness of the positive impact individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities have in our communities and why the use of the R-word is hurtful, even in casual conversation.
Said one advocate, “This is not just a day of awareness, but a movement to end hate as a whole.” ”
The Special Olympics organization is encouraging people to rally and pledge their support with the goal of reaching 100,000 pledges. Are you willing to take the pledge?