spaceisprettycool:

glynnisi:

Please do not use The ‘R’ Word

Tumblr is my fun place, so I don’t usually get into this here, but… reasons. 

Lovely people here sometimes use the word ‘Retard’ or ‘Retarded’ or some variation (ie ’________-tard’) and those lovely people do NOT mean anything at all against people with cognitive or physical disabilities.  

I understand. I get it.  Seriously!  I’m not being sarcastic at all.  This is on my mind in the friendliest of ways.  I don’t mean to embarrass or offend.  I just hope to help you understand.

My younger son was born with Down syndrome. He’s doing well (learning, growing, healthy) and I adore him. I’m proud of him. But, for me, slurs against people with disabilities strike a painful nerve.  It’s personal.  It brings up every fear I’ve ever had about my son being bullied or abused.  It hurts. 

I can’t step off this soapbox.  Life put me on it for keeps.  

So, please, consider your language. 😉  Help End the ‘R’ Word.

Thank you.