Don’t Retard Being a Fan

By: Tiffany Tan, ASP Board Secretary

“Be a fan of human dignity and acceptance,” said ASP Trustee Mariter Macapagal who is also the President of the Special Olympics Philippines (SOP) Board.

Special Olympics Philippines is affiliated with Special Olympics International. Recently, SOP launched the Be a Fan Campaign which aims to send a powerful message that resonates with the general public, tapping into core values and attributes that everyone can appreciate - unity, acceptance, empowerment, dignity, courage, strength, pride, confidence and fun.

Sign of Wrong and Right

“Be a part of the movement by advocating the message of hope to institutions,” insisted Mariter “actively campaigning to stop using the word ‘retard,’ joining thousands of families who uphold the rights of special people.”

Meaning of Retard

According to the Miriam Webster’s Dictionary, the word “retard” means to impede, to slow up especially by preventing or hindering advance or accomplishment. Through the years, the word “retard” has evolved into another meaning, subject to misuse. It is often used to insult or offend people with disabilities. Now, even health professionals are discouraged to use the term.

A popular site, the Urban Dictionary, encourages people to give their own definition of everyday random words. This post best describes people who chose to misuse retard, “The people who choose to make fun of the mental retarded tend to be complete “morons” and cannot comprehend that these people have feelings and emotions, just like anyone else.” -Thank you.

Be fans for Autism

Filipino athletes with intellectual disabilities, including autism, have participated in international competitions, winning medals for the country. Let’s choose to be fans of people with disabilities and celebrate their potentials. Click here to know more.

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ASP aims to cure society’s ignorance about autism on a daily basis. The ASP Board will have a Strategic Planning Conference this March 20 and we will work harder for a brighter future for our children. Be an Angel for Autism. Call us at 7-903-5496 to help ASP projects and activities. Log on for more details.