Abandon the 'R'-Word

I wouldn't say this is an informative post as it's just me guiding readers to not do something you should know not to do anyway, but unfortunately there are many people out there who don't know the damage of their day-to-day colloquial slang.

 I'm not a saint and in the past I have used the word 'retard' and 'mong' half-heartedly, without knowing the amount of hurt it can cause because I didn't know the meanings behind these words and what they are actually referring to. 

Here's a list of a few of the words you may become guilty of using in your everyday conversations, and a heads up of what they actually mean. 

Retard- Refers to someone who has been born with a mental condition which causes limitations in their speech, learning and impulsive/physical movements. It is an archaic insult to those who have actually had an onset at birth or childhood, or those with brain injury or damage. It can also politically incorrect when used in back-and-forth 'banter' with friends, calling someone a 'retard' behind their back etc. 

Mong- The anachronistic word to describe someone with Downs syndrome, shortened version of the word 'mongoloid'. Usually used as an insult for someone who makes an 'idiotic' decision and also by weed smokers who describe themselves as 'monged' or 'monging out'.
Spaz/Spastic- Also a word used as an insult to describe those with brain damage/injury. Commonly mistaken with the word spasm, which can get people hyper sensitive as 'spasm' actually describes a sudden and rapid muscle movement.
Psycho- A word relating to mental disabilities such as paranoia and schizophrenia. Two equally awful mental health issues and absolutely horrifying to experience. Calling people names because of an illness probably won't help to ease any pain.


Public Bullying and Humiliation

These words should not be used as insults as they are archaic and cruel ways of referring to someone with a disability or illness.  If you see someone with a disability and find it somewhat hilarious, you should be respecting them and treating them as normal people enjoying themselves and no less than that. They are normal people, but with suited requirements to help them get by, enjoying there day and I'm sure they'd like it to stay that way.


Using these words as 'banter' or humiliation

You may find these words hilarious or harmless, or be totally subconscious about the meaning of these words (if so, refer to the little dictionary provided). As said, these words should not be used as a form of humiliation or an insult at that. It is a form of hate speech against an entire group of people, going against inclusion. We are not living in the 18th century anymore (it shouldn't have even been acceptable to be so cruel even back then) should be learning to accept people for who they are as a person, and not for their label or how you physically see them.

You could easily see someone with special needs and have a giggle, but they want to be treated normally and enjoy their lives. They are happy, so why should that be a point of spiteful discussion. They could be the nicest people you've ever met but you wouldn't know because you've decided to laugh rather than be a decent human being.

'Not Acceptable R-Word PSA'- Please take a watch to listen to many loved TV stars briefly say their opinions on the 'r-word'

I hope this post has been somewhat insightful for you guys and that you will cut these words out of your vocabulary soon.

Stay safe and I will be posting again soon, much love! xo