The use of the R-word slur ("retard") to refer to people with intellectual disabilities has a long and complex history. The term "retard" is derived from the word "retarded," which was originally used as a medical term in the late 19th century to describe individuals with intellectual disabilities.
However, the R-word quickly became a pejorative and was used to demean and dehumanize people with intellectual disabilities. The use of the R-word as an insult became more widespread in the mid-20th century, particularly in the United States, as it became more common to institutionalize people with disabilities.
Throughout much of the 20th century, the R-word was used in official language, such as in medical diagnoses and educational assessments. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards using more respectful and person-centered language to refer to people with disabilities.
Many disability advocacy groups have worked to raise awareness about the harmful effects of using slurs like the R-word and as a result, there has been a decline in the use of the term in mainstream culture. In 2010, President Barack Obama signed "Rosa's Law," which replaced the term "mental retardation" with "intellectual disability" in federal health, education, and labor policy.
Despite these changes, the use of the derogatory R-word still persists in some communities and can have a harmful impact on people with intellectual disabilities and their families.
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