Political Quotes

“March 6 is the day we ``Spread the Word to End the Word,'' an ongoing effort by Special Olympics, Best Buddies, and many others to raise the consciousness of society about the hurtful effects of the word ``retard'' and to encourage people to pledge to stop using the ``R'' word. Respectful and inclusive language is essential to the dignity and humanity of people with intellectual disabilities. Much of society does not realize the hurtful, dehumanizing, and exclusive effects of this word. This campaign is intended to engage schools, organizations, and communities to rally and pledge their support to promote the inclusion and acceptance of people with intellectual disabilities. Today, I pledge my support to help end the derogatory use of the ``R'' word from everyday speech and promote the acceptance and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to ``Spread the Word to End the Word.'' ____________________”