I Refuse To Be Labled

Written By David Gauthier

What made me come up with my for the BBCA Spread the Word to End the Word campaign?   I truly love words.  And words can be amazingly powerful weapons.  When used to hurt, words can easily be deadly.  And when used to help or heal, words are equally, if not, more powerful. 

So, in this case we'll focus on the word retarded and all its derivatives.  When used in reference to one’s own foibles, foolishness or error, malice is obviously not intended, but the malice is there none the less.  No matter how the word is used the derogatory meaning is always abundantly clear.

I truly believe the word should not be used by anyone in civilized society because you are quite literally singling out, and labeling a minority, who, by virtue of being who they are, have no viable way to defend themselves.  As the19^th century Danish philosopher, Kierkegaard once said, "If you label me, you negate me."

 And when in this enlightened age is it really in any ones best interest to use this word?  I would never, ever, even consider banning the use of the word.  What I am suggesting is that having the common sense and common decency, I believe we were all born with, to stop using the word.

The reality is that the word has no other use than to label and degrade a group of human beings that already have more hurdles, obstacles, barriers, fear and stigma to overcome than any one who is normal will ever have to endure.

 To tell you the truth, I'd much rather not be labeled at all, and being labeled that is bad, but much worse is it to be labeled ignorant.  Why you ask?  Because being that is not a choice.  Being ignorant is a choice.  It just means that you choose to be far too lazy to change. How do you like that for a label?

To see the campaign click: We R

 

“Emmy’s Pledge” Hannah Asks her Peers to Stop Using the R-Word

Story as told by Hannah:

I completed my senior year this year at Rancho Buena Vista high school, in Vista, California. Traditionally seniors are required to complete community participation hours and most students choose to attend school board meetings or events in the community. I chose to create my own project entitled “Emmy’s Pledge”. My little sister’s name is Emmy and she is 9 years old. 

Hannah & Emmy

Emmy was born with a seizure disorder and has had three major brain surgeries, leaving her with special needs. My project was created in an effort to influence my peers to stop using the R-word, so I created a pledge that stated, “I pledge and support the elimination of the derogatory use of the R-word and promote acceptance and inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities.” . I spoke in numerous history classes and told Emmy’s story. Students were invited to sign the pledge and buy a purple bracelet that said “Emmy’s Pledge” on it to serve as a reminder NOT to use the R-Word. All of the proceeds paid for four of the special-needs students at my school to go to Prom. One of the four students named Randy, was voted Prom King by our student body.

What I learned the most during this process is the immense impact one individual can have if they set their mind to do something. I am so grateful that I had this opportunity because it allowed me to bring light to an issue that has been overlooked for so long. People are beginning to see those with special needs, not for their disabilities alone. I truly hope discrimination against people who cannot defend themselves is one step closer to being diminished.