The R-word is a term that stands for "retard," "retarded," or other offensive words ending in "-tard". It is a form of hate speech that is considered derogatory and offensive to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. While "mental retardation" was originally introduced as a medical term in 1961 for people with intellectual disabilities, in the decades since, the R-word has become an insult used all too commonly in everyday language. The R-word is considered hate speech because it offends people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as their families and friends. The use of the R-word is hurtful and exclusive, and it equates intellectual disability with being dumb or stupid. It is a form of bullying that continues to hurt people with intellectual disabilities.

Several organizations, including Special Olympics and Best Buddies, have launched campaigns to end the use of the R-word and promote inclusion for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Spread the Word: Inclusion campaign is one such effort that encourages people to pledge to stop using the R-word and to promote acceptance and respect for all people. The campaign is intended to engage school organizations and communities to rally and pledge their support in helping to build communities of inclusion and acceptance for all people.

In summary, the R-word is a derogatory term that is considered hate speech and is offensive to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It is a form of bullying that continues to hurt people with intellectual disabilities. Several organizations have launched campaigns to end the use of the R-word and promote inclusion for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.