Obviously, I’ve known since childhood not to use the “n word.” It was instilled in me that the word had a stigma to it that was much worse than any other curse word I could come up with. It was something you did not say. End of story.
But what about the r-word? You know, the word “retard.” Is it hate speech? Should it be considered hate speech? I hate typing it now, so that will be the last time I type it fully here. Of course, I used it when I was younger. And just like in this video, it was never used to insult someone with an actual disability. It was meant to portray the idea that something wasn’t working right, “This computer is being re—–d,” a friend was being stupid, “You’re re—–d,” or a situation just sucked, “This is re—–d.” It was never meant to be a true insult to anyone who had disabilities.
As I’ve aged, however, I have come to the point I’don’t?even want to?use it. I’m intelligent enough I can find a more descriptive and acceptable word to use, and frankly, I do feel now it’s hurtful. I’m old enough to think about its effect on others, and I just don’t want to spread that stigma. Same thing goes for the usage of the word “gay.” I hope to be able to teach this to my son.
This video is a great explanation of the implications behind the word, why it shouldn’t be used, and what it means to those with disabilities. If you have a kid or a friend or a loved one that doesn’t get it? Show them this video?and the accompanying enlightening article. Let them know that, yes, it is hate speech.
