January 3, 2011: Diversity is any kind of variety that makes our world a better place.
In our society we do not use words that refer to people in a hateful or derogatory manner. Do you know anyone in your community with a developmental disability such as Down’s Syndrome or Cerebral Palsy, for example? Very few of you would call them a hateful name. But when someone uses the term “retarded” in a joking way, it is hurtful, even if it’s not meant to be. In our school, let’s add the word “retarded” to the list of words that are inappropriate to joke about.
This week we honor the abilities of all students by celebrating the anniversary of the founding of “Best Buddies.” Best Buddies is an organization that was started by one college student in Washington DC in 1989. His idea was to create one-to-one opportunities for disabled individuals to socialize or work with non-disabled volunteers. Today, Best Buddies programs exist in high schools and colleges in all 50 states.
Remember, you don’t have to travel as far as Washington, DC to find diversity. There are hundreds of opportunities to celebrate diversity right here at your own school. Find one today!
