In spite of the media spin saying the new movie, "Tropic Thunder" is a movie-within-a-movie making fun of self-absorbed actors, it begins with "Once upon a time there was a retard..." The actor who has played, "Simple Jack - a dim-witted farmer" in a movie is criticized by another action hero for playing him with every typical understanding (misunderstanding) of people with developmental disabilities. "You never go full retard!" he shouts. The National Down Syndrome Congress is concerned that this new movie will result in bullying of children with special needs. One of the most unfortunate consequences of the movies is the distribution of merchandise displaying offensive lines like, "Never go full retarded" on clothing and other items. Tim Shriver, chairman of the Special Olympics said, "I'd like people not to see it. I'd like kids with special needs going back to school in the fall to not have to deal with other kids saying, "Are you a full retard?" Those who use the label to describe someone do not know the power of their words, or the level of their own ignorance. ~~~It's all about Respect -- an "R" word I can live with.
No comments:
Post a Comment