12/04/2025
NADD STATEMENT ON THE PRESIDENT’S USE OF THE “R-WORD”
On Thanksgiving Day, the President of the United States used language that has long caused deep hurt to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities—a word rooted in decades of stigma, exclusion, and discrimination. Hearing such language from the highest elected official in our nation is not only disappointing, but profoundly harmful to millions of individuals, families, and professionals who work every day to advance dignity and inclusion.
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are human beings with strengths, talents, and inherent worth. Careless language of this nature pulls us backward to a time when people with disabilities were routinely demeaned and marginalized. For many, it reopens wounds that communities have worked tirelessly to heal.
The professionals who support individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and co-occurring mental health needs understand the power of respect. We know that words matter—that language can uplift and affirm, or it can harm and diminish. The “R-word” was retired because it caused real and lasting pain. Its use—especially in the context of an insult, punchline or political jab—is unacceptable.
This moment is not about politics. It is about human decency, respect, and the responsibility we all share to build communities where every person is valued. NADD calls on all Americans—to consider the impact of their words and to choose language that honors the dignity of people with disabilities.
We urge policymakers, public officials, media figures, and community leaders to actively promote respectful, inclusive language; to apologize and correct course when harm is caused; and to join disability organizations in advancing education, awareness, and equity.
Words shape culture—and each of us has a role in choosing a culture of respect.
