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Spread the Word Inclusion 2024

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Inclusion is about equality, acceptance and respect for all. Join the Golisano Foundation, Best Buddies, and Special Olympics for our Spread the Word Inclusion 2024 global day of activation on Wednesday, March 6 and Festival of Inclusion on Saturday, February 24.

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Festival of Inclusion

Saturday, February 24, 2024
11 AM - 2 PM
Golisano Training Center at Nazareth University
Free!

 


Spread the Word Inclusion Day
Wednesday, March 6, 2024

As we celebrate 15 years of Spread the Word, we're reflecting on the incredible journey and the impact this campaign has had in fostering inclusion and breaking down stereotypes. Now, we're energized to renew our commitment by returning to the roots of the campaign, reigniting the spark and momentum that defined its early days in 2009. With the same passion and dedication, we aim to journey back to the heart of our mission. We're eager to inspire change, one word at a time.

In our commitment to breaking down barriers and fostering acceptance, we recognize the importance of adaptability and relevance.

Spread the Word was created to End the Word and we believe we should stick to the core reason why this campaign was created, to commit to acknowledging the hurt caused by disparaging words towards people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The R-word is not as prevalent, but it is still used, along with other derogatory language words. Words matter because they hold the power to shape perceptions, influence emotions, and drive actions. The language we use can either foster understanding, empathy, and unity, or perpetuate stereotypes, division, and discrimination. Choosing our words carefully is essential for effective communication and building a more inclusive and compassionate society.

The Golisano Foundation has been challenging people to Spread the Word to End the R-Word (the word retard or retarded) and now Spread the Word Inclusion for over a decade, encouraging participation from people across New York state and Florida. The Foundation's annual campaign has become one of the largest in the country for a single region and is held on the national Spread the Word Inclusion day of awareness in early March. Schools, non-profits, businesses and many other organizations organize awareness events ask people to pledge to take a stand against using the R-word, "retard" or "retarded." The r-word has gained popularity in culture, but is offensive and derogatory to people with developmental disabilities. Spread the Word to End the Word now Spread the Word Inclusion was started by youth and is an ongoing effort of Special Olympics International and Best Buddies.

Follow along on social media @PledgeToInclude and join us!

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