Carpino & Case: Reject the R-Word Letter

Earlier last week, Chris Powell published an editorial in the Journal Inquirer discussing Connecticut’s most recent budget cuts—which include major cuts to mental health agencies. This is a sad fact, for sure, but that isn’t what upset us about the article. Instead, what stuck out to me was that individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities were referred to as “retarded”. Not once, but twice.

We were stunned and disappointed with these references. The R-word is an offensive, derogatory term and casual and persistent use in everyday life should be rejected.

We welcome Mr. Powell to learn more about the Special Olympics and the many other organizations that showcase how individuals with intellectual disabilities live productive and rewarding lives in the community.

We have spent a large part of our personal lives trying to end the stigma carried by this word. While the R-word may have once been a common, technical phrase, used without intention to demean, it transformed into a word that is now used to degrade and belittle.

Clearly, we still have quite a ways to go in educating the public on the negative connotation associated with the R-word. We would encourage you all to please visit http://www.r-word.org/ and pledge to stop using this offensive term.

Additionally, the site offers ideas on what to do when you hear the word being used and how you can become an advocate for this wonderful community.

We must continue to strive towards becoming a more compassionate, more respectful community.

State Rep. Christie Carpino (R-32)
State Rep. Jay Case (R-63)