Tuesday, 29 December 2015

The R Word Pledge Movement And Its Objectives

By Elizabeth Johnson


Some words are very derogatory when used in communication. You may not be aware that such words or phrases are hurting to the person whom they are told. It has therefore proven important for people to take action against the use of such words in conversations. The word retard is an example of such words. This phrase is very insensitive and hurtful when used to address people dealing with intellectual disabilities. The r word pledge movement was started in 2009 to help create sensitization to people against the use of this phrase.

The aim of this movement over the years since its formation has been to create awareness among people on the use of respectful language. There are many individuals that use derogatory phrases intentionally while others do it non-intentionally. Many of the individuals who are referred to with the r phrase are suffering from cognitive or development challenges. It is important to educate the public that these individual require care and friendship and not abuse.

This initiative started in the year 2009 amid the Special Olympics World Winter Games. Amid the occasion, a gathering of young people made up of people with and without intellectual inabilities chose to spread the message on ending the use of phrase retard. They used outfits that showed the message; Spread the Word to end the Word.

The movement has been using students in institutions all over the country who take a pledge against using the phrase retard. They also urge other individuals in the community to do the same. The 31st of March each year has been set aside as a day to commemorate the agenda of this movement. Public figures that have used the word before have been hugely condemned and asked to make pubic apologies. Some have gone ahead and taken the pledge themselves.

The initiative has used various strategies to accomplish its objectives. The major strategy has been through educating students in schools and colleges across the nation and then asking them to help spread this message. The movement has also utilized the social media platform to gain a wide coverage across different states. Platforms such as facebook and YouTube have enabled the group to get followers and ask them to take the pledge.

The passing of a light of appreciation additionally goes far in passing the message of the initiative. The light is moved in a hand to hand-off relay over 50 states. The transfer likewise involves raising money where people can contribute towards the honorable intention of the activity. With more funds, facilitators of this initiative can have the capacity to inform more people.

Individuals joining this movement are encouraged to share their stories on how they decided to join the movement on its website. These stories have encouraged more individuals to join the initiative and grow this community.

Celebrities and public figures have also helped in the message spread. They speak to large crowds and convince them to take the message with them. We need to take care of individuals suffering from cognitive disabilities. They need our care and not rebuke.




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