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While common and accepted in most social situations, the slang use of the word "retard" is discriminatory. Individuals with developmental disabilities aren't vegetables, clueless or dumb. They simply think in a different way, process at a different pace and are capable of different things.

You wouldn't call your wheel chair bound grandmother "gimpy", would you? Children should be taught that using the word retard out of context is wrong and hurtful, just like any other name calling. The overuse and misuse of the word is so common that people are desensitized to its harm.

During a pre-employment screening at an agency for developmentally disabled people, a young lady rose to answer a question. She clumsily dropped her pencil then hit her head on the table as she bent to pick it up. Embarrassed and nervous she exclaimed,

"I am such a retard!"

A couple of applicants actually laughed. The executive director without hesitation removed the young lady and all who giggled. As we become more technically advanced, we regress socially and morally. Things that were once considered rude and inappropriate are perfectly acceptable. Respect and dignity are falling to the wayside as we climb our ladders of independence and follow our quest for demanding the best.

As with any form of prejudice, using "retard" in a slang manner should be punishable in school and at work. Parents should teach their children why it's inappropriate and wrong to use the word out of context. Many day rehabilitation programs would be eager to allow a visit. The participants are proud of the work they do in the program and love visitors. Visiting a day rehabilitation is a good way for children to see that people with special needs are just like them. Some may need a wheel chair for mobility while others need complete care.

Many people are afraid of what they don't understand. Getting to know some people with special needs and developing a relationship with them is an excellent way to put an end to the misuse of the word "retard."

Many individuals with developmental problems are the butt of cruel jokes. They are called retards, window lickers and a variety of other names. It is as shameful as racism. A retarded person knows when he is being made fun of and in fact may be even more aware of ridicule. At the end of the day when the lights go out, we are all the same. We are all human beings.

Learn more about this author, Stacia Elizabeth Whitbeck.
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