Community Living North Bay
News Release
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On March 5, 2014 Community Living North Bay held their “Spread the Word to End the Word™” campaign to help make a stand against a word that has gained popularity in culture, but is offensive to many.
The “R-word” has found a place in common language and seems to be accepted by most, despite the fact that its use, casual or otherwise, is hurtful to millions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and those that love them.
The word hurts, even if it is not directed at a person with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
For too long, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have had to overcome the challenges society has put forth through stereotypes. It is time for a change!
Over the course of the day members of the community were encouraged to sign a pledge to use more respectful and people first language.
Pledge banners were located at F-J Dellandrea Place, West Ferris Secondary School, St Joseph Scollard Hall, École Secondaire Catholique Algonquin as well as Canadore College/Nipissing University.
At the end of the day there were hundreds of signatures on the banners.
According to representatives of Community Living North Bay this event is an opportunity to inform and effect positive change in the community.
What better way than helping to “Spread the Word to End the Word” and in turn, create communities of acceptance and inclusion for all people.
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