No, I am not American, nor do I follow American politics but I have a lot of American friends with special needs children who have also been outraged by a controversy over at Twitter today after Ann Coulter tweeted this gem to the President
So wrong on so many levels.
Well Ann; These two beautiful boys of mine are both diagnosed with autism. Do you think they are retarded? Do you?
Not cool Ann. Not cool.
So do me a favour Ann? Think before you write something so revolting next time. There are so many people who you have hurt with that one comment.
If you feel strongly about this too: Come and join the blog hop over at Yeah Good Times.
Fi, Is the lady from the USA? Cause up till I finished work and studying 2007, there children with ‘additional needs’ were reguarly written of in (education textbooks mind you) of having mental retardation. I don’t know wether things have changed since I ‘retired’ but it always noticed and such during lectures and Tuts that this was the case. For some unkown reason folks and professionals in the USA have not moved on from such language. Do I think its appropriate NO NEVER, EVER. Aunt Jennifer.
There is a categorization of retardation, but that is not the context here, nor is it usually. Although many people would prefer a different word in all contexts, I don’t get upset if that is the context. But this was used as an insult, to imply that someone who is stupid or silly. She knew what she was saying and that it would get a rise out of people.
Jenn, my son too is diagnosed as MMR: Mildly Mentall Retarded. It is in the DSM-IV and “they” will continue to diagnose patients as fitting that diagnosis until DSM-IV is retired.
If the word is used in the factually correct manner, I have no problem with it. It’s just the other 99% of the time – when it’s used outside of the medical and mechanical arenas – where I have a problem.
I saw this tweet myself and I was disturbed by its use.
Well done for highlighting it.
Amen! Love the new cover photo of your gorgeous family too.
Awesome post. Beautiful kids!!
I agree! I live in the US, and I can tell you that NOONE uses that word anymore except in a deragatory way. It’s considered highly offensive. Unfortunately, some people seem to like using offesive language. I can’t imagine why.
Those boys are such sweeties! Great post. Here’s mine:
http://www.imjustthatway.com/2012/10/ann-coulter-insulted-my-child.html
What makes her comment extra revolting is that she DID think before she typed. Nothing she says is by accident. Your boys are adorable!
Thank you for taking the time to share this. We might not be able to make a difference with Ms. Coulter, but hopefully others will be paying attention. Here’s out post: http://www.prayingforparker.com/ann-coulter-and-the-difference-she-could-have-made/
Reblogged this on it2s and commented:
TheNon Verbals: We wrote about how we felt about Ann Coulter’s inappropriate name calling and we are asking and encouraging all IT2′s (Intelligent Thinkers X 2) all around the world to stand up & speak up with us. Our strength is in each of us and we are stronger as we unite together and allow our voices to be heard. We do not have to hide in the shadows any longer. IT2′s have great creativity and undiscovered talents to be given to this world. Everyday we are hearing about the accomplishments of someone with special needs. Please read our comments, share with your friends & families and again we encourage you to speak up & out. We are Nonverbal, but we will be heard. Sending you all of Christ Jesus love and ours, I am Deer Jon & IT2′s. http://it2s.wordpress.com/2012/10/25/anncoulter-retard-i-am-deer-jon-it2s/