A Response to CNN’s Article on the Return of the R-Word
Last week, CNN published an article highlighting the alarming return of the R-word in media and public discourse. At LIFEPlan, we want to be unequivocally clear: This word is a slur. It has no place in our communities, in our language, or in the future we’re working to build.
“We have made great strides over the past five decades in closing institutions and promoting the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our society. Words hurt, words diminish. People with IDD are our friends, our neighbors, our family members, and our coworkers. We must all stand against the usage of this derogatory term that only perpetuates the stigmatization and mistreatment of this population,” said Nick Cappoletti, CEO of LIFEPlan.
This is not simply a matter of language—it’s a matter of dignity, equity, and humanity. For the tens of thousands of people we support across New York State, many of whom have been dismissed, overlooked, or marginalized for far too long, words like these reopen wounds and perpetuate damaging stereotypes.
At LIFEPlan, we believe in the power of advocacy, education, and visibility. We’re proud to walk alongside so many fierce self-advocates, families, and care managers who are redefining what inclusion means every day.
Meet the advocates who embody our mission:
Imani Barbarin
A dynamic disability rights activist and creator of the blog Crutches and Spice, Imani uses her platform to discuss the intersectionality of race, gender, and disability. Through viral hashtags like #AbledsAreWeird and #MyDisabledLifeIsWorthy, she challenges societal norms and advocates for inclusive language and policies. Listen to her recent NPR interview here: The power of words, disability, & ableism: It’s Been a Minute: NPR
Lydia X. Z. Brown
Ari Ne’eman
As the co-founder of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network and a former member of the National Council on Disability, Ari has been at the forefront of promoting neurodiversity and challenging derogatory language. His work underscores the necessity of policies and discourse that respect and uplift individuals with disabilities. Learn more about Ari and recent publications here: Ari Ne’eman | Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
We urge everyone—inside and outside our network—to choose respect. Choose words that uplift. Choose to stand with those whose voices need amplifying, not silencing. Let’s not regress. Let’s move forward—with dignity, truth, and action.