When asked about the NFL’s decision to begin having the big game in cold weather climates, referring specifically to next year’s Super Bowl taking place outdoors in New York City, Flacco said the decision was “retarded.” Flacco quickly backtracked on his word choice, however the damage has been done.
The awareness group “R-Word.org” quickly responded on their website saying they could not condone Flacco’s word choice; they claim that it is this ignorant usage of the word which gives it the power to offend. R-Word.org is the group who launched the “spread the word to end the word campaign” – an event which has recently reached Pilgrim High School.
Here is Flacco’s full comment:
“Yeah, I think it’s retarded. I probably should not say that. I think it’s stupid. If you want a Super Bowl, put a retractable dome on your stadium. Then you can get one. Other than that I don’t really like the idea. I don’t think people would react very well to it, or be glad to play anybody in that kind of weather.”
Please follow the link below to learn more about the power this word has and how to combat its insensitive and damaging use.
www.r-word.org
I also invite you to take the following pledge in reference to the "R" word...
"I pledge and support the elimination of the derogatory use of the r-word from everyday speech and promote the acceptance and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities."