Am I being too sensitive? What is your opinion of this post?

[DeeDeeNY]

I politely (used the word "please") asked someone not to use the word "retarded" as a slur, and this is the answer that I got:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=7726178&mesg_id=7727316

[elleng]

1. No, you are not being too sensitive.

Unfortunately, as with other social matters, it takes a long time for many to take the time to learn about 'new stuff.'

SO, the brother who was considered 'retarded' 40 years ago, we now learn, is 'dyslexic,' and has become a highly successful businessman. (Just one example.)

The rude person should understand the highly damaging effect of referring to someone as 'retarded,' compared with referring to the many 'new' and actual disabilities identified today. He should learn something about the jargon.

[DeeDeeNY]

2. Thanks for your thoughtful response

I always think of Democrats as being caring people, so it surprises me whenever I see such nastiness here.

[Kajsa]

3. DeeDee, you are NOT too sensitive!

This jerk is rude, condescending and judging by his response,
not very informed.

My autistic son has more understanding and compassion than
this person!

Call them out and I will continue to do the same.

"Retarded" used in ANY context other than to describe MR as a medical condition
is a slur,PERIOD!

I wish I could respond to that jerk!
There's no reply link available.

I would quote my son,

" Retarded used as a put down, is the 'N' word to disabled people!"

Keep up the good work, DeeDee.

:pals:

[goddess40]

4. No you're not, that poster was too insensitive

They were trying to find the right word that would make them feel good and hurt their opponent but they were out of line with the choice.

But I do like the reply from redqueen " These aren't "low information voters", these are "fact-resistant voters"."

[lumberjack_jeff]

5. It takes time.

I always point out to posters who use "retard" how hurtful it is. I try to point it out in a way that explains why I find it hurtful. Just as the poster who replied to you demonstrated, I can't tell anyone what to do. I can only tell them how I felt reading what they said.

The alternative almost always results in "Oh yeah, language nazi! Make me!"

Instead of "this violates the rules" or "(please) stop doing that", try "I have a loved one with a developmental disability. Your post really hurt."

[DeeDeeNY]

7. Thanks. I can try that the next time.

And from the amount of times I see the word "retard" or "retarded" used as a slur on DU, there will be plenty of next times. I can't sit by silently any time I see this.

[KamaAina]

6. Next time it happens, point 'em here:

http://www.r-word.org

Many people with cognitive disabilities do indeed view the "r-word" as a slur along the lines of the "n-word". Indeed, self-advocates recently got the American Association for Mental You-Know-What to change its name to the American Association for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities!

edit: spelling

[DeeDeeNY]

8. I have bookmarked this site and I thank you.

[Kajsa]

11. Thank you, KamaAina.

I've bookmarked the website,also.

This is a great resource.

:) :pals:

[merwin]

9. Judging by his response to your post, he is the one

that is "relatively slow in mental or emotional or physical development".

Just realize that he is the one with the disability here.

[DeeDeeNY]

10. Yes. Agreed.