Sunday, January 3, 2016

The R Word Pledge Movement And Its Objectives

By Elizabeth Johnson


A few words are extremely derogatory when utilized as a part of correspondence. You may not know that such words or expressions are harming to the individual whom they are said. It has consequently proven essential for individuals to make a move against the utilization of such words in discussions. The word retard is among these phrases. This word is exceptionally uncaring and destructive when used to address individuals having intellectual disabilities. The r word pledge initiative was begun in 2009 to sensitive individuals against the utilization of this expression.

The main goal of this movement is to create awareness among people. It informs them of the importance of using respectful language when referring to people with cognitive and development challenges. The movement goes ahead to inform the public that the victims of this derogatory statement can be able to live normally and achieve success without being regarded as retards.

This movement begun back in the year 2009 during the Special Olympics World Winter Games. During the event, a group of youths comprised of individuals with and without the cognitive disabilities decided to spread the message to end the use of the word. They wore outfits that displayed the message Spread the Word to end the Word.

This initiative has been utilizing students in schools throughout the nation who take a pledge against utilizing the expression retard to spread the message. They likewise ask people in the society to do likewise. The 31st March every year has been put aside as a day to honor the plan of the initiative. Public figures that have utilized the word before have been colossally condemned and requested to make public statements of regret.

To achieve its objectives, this pledge movement has used several strategies to pass the information to the public. Students in schools have been the greatest means of spreading the message. This movement has also widely used social media to gain support towards its goals. They have used Facebook, Instagram, Youtube and other channels to gain followers who help in passing the memo to more people. Interested individuals can join the sites and sign up to contribute towards the initiative.

There is also a passing of the torch of respect which takes place for about 46 days. The torch is passed by a hand to hand relay in about 50 states across the country. This goes a long way in helping reach more individuals with the message. The relay also includes a fund-raising mission to aid the movement in its objectives of reaching more people.

People joining this initiative are urged to share their different stories relating to what and how they chose to join it on its website. Such stories have urged more people to join the initiative and help it grow.

Celebrities have helped greatly in the goals of the movement. With their support, the initiative has been able to communicate to a wide audience. It is important to understand that people referred to as retards do not deserve this. They are just individuals with cognitive disabilities and deserve our care.




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