SPREAD THE WORD TO END THE WORD
March 5th will be Spread the Word to End the Word day. The campaign is a continuous effort by Special Olympics, Best Buddies, and supporters to increase society's understanding about the hurtful nature of the R-word and to encourage people to pledge to stop using it.
Spread the Word to End the Word was founded in 2009 by
two college students, Soeren Palumbo and Tim Shriver. Passionate supporters across the United
States and in other countries continue to spread the word to promote this
campaign.
Language is a powerful tool and the use of inclusive
language assists in making sure nobody is left behind, hurt, or excluded. Oftentimes, people don't realize how hurtful
and dehumanizing the R-word is to people with intellectual disabilities.
In summary, let's band together to use kind, respectful
language that includes everyone! I
encourage you to visit www.r-word.org to
pledge your support to eliminate the R-word and also to get ideas for events to
Spread the Word to End the Word.
Thank you for your time and support regarding this
important effort!
Sincerely,
Jessie Salness
Lebanon County Special Olympics Athlete Representative
