Maureen McCormick Instagram – Earlier this week, I called attention to Elon Musk’s use of the R-word, sharing a message about the harm of that language. I’m grateful that @momccormick7 helped amplify this conversation, bringing more awareness to why words matter. Here’s what I shared. 🙏
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Asking again, Mr. Elon Musk… As one of our country’s leading business figures, you have the opportunity to influence the hearts and minds of millions of people in this country and around the world.
People with intellectual disabilities have suffered generations of discrimination and humiliation. They have been institutionalized, mocked, rejected by schools, denied healthcare, experimented upon and dehumanized. The injustice and indignities have led to unspeakable tragedy and loss of life. With cruel taunts and contemptuous labels—retard, moron, imbecile—this injustice has flourished.
In the 21st century, they, together with their families and friends, are leading a battle for the simplest form of justice: the justice that comes with a recognition of their full humanity. Globally, changes in policy and practice have led to hopeful new opportunities and, perhaps most importantly, to a new dawn of dignity and joy.
For these reasons, we invite you to meet with our athletes to understand their perspectives. They will surely ask you to end your use of the R-word and join them in building a future where dignity and welcome are the expectations of everyone in our great country.
This is a teachable moment for our entire movement. May we ask you to join us now by using your great influence and position to help us continue to build a future of welcome for all? | Posted on 26/Feb/2025 00:59:50
