‘Tropic Thunder’ language draws fire

Dear Editor:

Last week, the film “Tropic Thunder” opened in movie theaters across the nation. While intended to be a satire on Hollywood actors and producers, the film has scenes that are offensive and demeans people with intellectual disabilities.

Many disability groups are joining together to object to this movie and its hurtful content. DreamWorks is aware of our concerns and has decided to take no action.

We are asking you to help in this campaign by boycotting the film “Tropic Thunder.”

In the movie, people with intellectual disabilities are being made fun of.

If we can hurt the ticket sales of this film, we will have made a statement to Hollywood that we will not stand for this type of content that is hurtful to people with intellectual disabilities.

Intellectual disabilities knows no borders: It is present in all countries, communities, races and social classes.

The R-word has long been a harsh reminder of the ridicule and negative stigma directed toward people with intellectual disabilities.

Although it is often not directed at a person with an intellectual disability, it is used in a negative fashion to demean or highlight someone’s lack of ability – a direct reflection on what people view as the capabilities of people with intellectual disabilities.

As to free speech, we have successfully over the years been able to make it socially and politically incorrect to use other forms of hate speech.

The “R-word” campaign is an initiative being spearheaded by Special Olympics to eliminate the word “retard” from everyday language.

We view the R-word as derogatory hate speech that further perpetuates negative stereotypes and dehumanizes people with intellectual disability.

Be a fan of dignity, don’t say the R-word. Visit www.R-word.org.

To overcome ignorance and prejudice we must educate. More information is available at www.laso.org.

Special Olympics Louisiana Staff

Baton Rouge, La.