The "R" word isn't funny to me

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The "R" word isn't funny to me

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uploaded by Darla S

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  uploaded by Darla S | add comment

A boycott of Paramount Pictures' new comedy "Tropic Thunder", scheduled for release on August 13, has been called for by international disability advocacy groups including The Arc of United States. "Tropic Thunder" includes a character called "Simple Jack" played by the popular actor Ben Stiller.

"Simple Jack" has an intellectual disability (formerly referred to as "mental retardation") and is the object of ridicule in the film including frequent use of the "R" word (retard) and other insulting terms used to describe this character.

Paramount and Dreamworks attitude toward the advocacy community's outreach for resolution appears to be, "Shouldn't people with intellectual disabilities just lighten up? It's a joke!"

The "R" word is no joke. Its usage is associated with a history of institutionalization, genocide, forced sterilization, segregation, and being regarded as "less than human." Additionally, more than any other group, people with intellectual disabilities continue to experience record unemployment, significant physical, mental and sexual abuse, and limited rights most likely because of stereotypes such as that portrayed in "Tropic Thunder."

The "R" word isn't funny to me. I would urge everyone to consider supporting this national boycott. Don't spend your money on a movie that uses cheap jokes at the expense of human beings who are the most isolated, victimized, and least able to defend themselves.

Disability is a natural part of the human experience. To learn about how you can join the movement to end discrimination of people with intellectual disabilities -- please visit www.thearc.org.