I think people should stop using the word “retarded.” Many people use the “r-word” without thinking twice. But do they know what it really means? Mental retardation was a term that doctors used when describing people with intellectual impairment. However, it doesn’t mean a person is stupid or incapable of doing what “normal” people can do.

People commonly use the r-word when describing something they think is stupid like, “that TV show is so retarded” or “this homework is so retarded.” Retard is also used to say that people with special needs are different, not normal, or should be kept separate from “normal” people. It hurts the feelings of those with special needs if you say the r-word around them. We caution people who say the r-word and remind them how hurtful it can be.

My little sister has Down Syndrome and has been labeled mentally retarded by doctors and the school system. She is a fun kid who likes to do what all kids like to do. She wrestles around with me, plays with her friends and toys, and enjoys sports like soccer and basketball. My family and I are involved with Special Olympics and enjoy spending time with these awesome, fun and loving kids. The r-word is a totally inappropriate way to describe these amazing kids.

Thousands of people at r-word.org agree with me and have made such a difference that President Obama signed Rosa’s Law, which removes the terms “mental retardation” and “mentally retarded” from federal health, education and labor policy. For more information go to r-word.org and remember “no more r-word.”

Jackson DePoppe

Enumclaw