Today is eliminate the R-word day

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KEKLO AM) - Language affects attitudes and attitudes impact action.

Jessica Kerher says that’s the message behind today’s “Spread the Word to End the Word,” an effort to encourage people to stop saying the R-word.

Kerher says this is the day your encouraged to pledge to quit using the R-word to describe people with disabilities.  She says you can do it at events held in the community, in schools or businesses or online at www.R-word.org

The campaign also promotes the acceptance of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.   Kerher says much of society doesn't recognize the hurtful, demeaning, dehumanizing and exclusive effects of the R-word.