Our choice of language frames how we think about others.
It is time to respect and value people with intellectual disabilities.
It is time to accept and welcome us as your friends and neighbors.

Pledge Your Support

ACT NOW--pledge your support to eliminate the demeaning use of the r-word. Tell us what you think.
Pledge and be heard

Tropic Thunder

The film contains a movie "Simple Jack... Once upon a time there was a retard." The actors use the r-word repeatedly, including the phrase "Never go full retard." Learn the facts.

The r-word

The r-word is hate speech that perpetuates the negative stereotypes that face people with intellectual disabilities every day. Yet, its use continues to gain in popularity. Learn more.

Be a fan

If you are a fan of sports that create unity and athletes who inspire, If you believe in dignity, acceptance and the human race, then you are already a fan of Special Olympics.
Get involved today.
10,185 total posts
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Amy

Winnipeg , Canada
2 hours ago
I pledge to never use the r-word and to advocate ending the use of this degrading and dehumanizing term. Stopping toleration of use of the r-word is the first step towards inclusion. Way of thinking is everything.

Laura

Tampa , FL
4 hours ago
I pledge and support the elimination of the derogatory use of the r-word from everyday speech and promote the acceptance and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.

Lisa

Toronto , Canada
5 hours ago
This word is historically offensive to people with intellectual disabilities and excruciatingly painful for families. Using the r-word for laughs implies that it is funny and acceptable. Rather, it's a slap in the face for many citizens with disabilities.

Barbara

Bismarck , AR, USA
1 day ago
My grandson is handicapped and has participated in the Special Olympics for years. I do all that I can to educate people about our children with special needs. I pledged long ago to never use the r word.

Barbara

Springfield , MA
1 day ago
STOP USING THE WORD!!! From Westfield State College

Pat

Rockport , Texas USA
1 day ago
I pledge to begin to try to change people's hearts about how harmful words can be when used to label another person.

Zach Hofer

Cincinnati , Ohio
1 day ago
I wrote this in English class. I thought I would share it with you. My brother has sever autism. I hope you enjoy it. This is "Retarded" By Zach Hofer A word that has caused so much trouble and pain Now is seen as common slang A

Mary


1 day ago
This word is not fair to any human. It means you can't learn. Many of our students can learn, just at a different pace than others. If you wanted to be a rocket scientest,you would have a hard time learning. So do these students with english and math.

Jim

Beijing , China
2 days ago
Our company has supported Special Olympics in many ways but this is as important a way as we can moving forward. Conor, you are the man!! Keep up your work.

Rod

Beijing , China
2 days ago
I pledge not to use this word ever and I will correct people who do!!!!

Shan

Beijing , China
2 days ago
I know how I would feel. I will never say it.

Billy

Beijing , China
2 days ago
I pledge and support the elimination of the derogatory use of the r-word from everyday speech and promote the acceptance and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.