what is the r word

The "R-word" is a term that stands for "retard" or "retarded" and is considered a form of hate speech that is hurtful and offensive to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The term was originally introduced as a medical term in 1961 for people with intellectual disabilities, but it has since become an insult used commonly in everyday language. The use of the R-word is considered a form of bullying and is the same as using any slur against a minority group. The R-word equates intellectual disability with being dumb or stupid, and it is exclusive and spreads hurt. The use of the R-word is hurtful and painful and, whether intended or not, is a form of bullying. The Spread the Word campaign is working towards inclusion for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and urges young people around the world to take a stand in their own communities and help change the conversation by eliminating the use of the R-word and replacing it with respect.