Spread the Word to End the Word

Ponca City DECA’s 2^nd Annual Spread the Word To End the Word Walk was held this morning, October 29. Over 200 participants from the community participated in the walk which started at Ponca City High School and continued around the Hutchins Auditorium to spread awareness of the campaign.

Spread the Word to End the Word is a national campaign started by Notre Dame students in 2009. Spread the word helps build awareness for society to stop and think about its’ use of the R-word. Use of that R-word, “retard” or “retarded,” is hurtful and painful and whether intended or not, is a form of bullying. Most people don’t think of this word as hate speech, but that’s exactly what it feels like to millions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families and friends. The R-word is just as cruel and offensive as any other slur.