This article was written by Carrie Kuecks, class of 2019.
It is hard to imagine a word more damaging than the r-word. Today, students were challenged to banish the r-word from their vocabulary and put an end to the harmful label. During fifth period, several speakers from the Best Buddies organization spoke to students about the ‘Spread the Worad’ Campaign. The event’s main goal was to “encourage students to stop using the r-word [retarded] and realize the negative consequences that may come when it is directed towards others,” said Best Buddies’s club president, senior Amanda Rivera.
Mrs. Teresa Becerra, Executive Director of the Autism Society of Florida, Luky Hadler and her son, Michael Hadler, a Best Buddies Ambassador, senior Amanda Rivera and freshmen Gabi Coutinho and Mikhal Ben-Joseph were some of the chosen
guest speakers at the event. Luky Hadler described Best Buddies as “An amazing organization that does not see labels.” Best Buddies Ambassador Michael Hadler gave an inspiring speech about his personal experience with the Best Buddies Organization. “Best Buddies helps people enjoy their life [despite] their challenges,” Michael said.
Students will learn about disabilities and the importance of ending offensive terms such as the “r-word.” (Photo/Carrie Kuecks).
The assembly also included a question and answer session led by Best Buddies Broward County managers Stephania Tattoli and Betty Busot, who helped answer questions along with other guest speakers.
“Two years ago we held our first ‘Spread the Word to End the Word’ assembly. Afterwards, Mrs. Elise Blum asked us to make this a yearly event. Our main goal is to create awareness and acceptance of individuals with IDD (intellectual and developmental disabilities),” Best Buddies’s club advisor Mrs. Alexandra Stahlschmidt said.
The assembly discussed and promoted the Best Buddies club and improved student understanding of people with disabilities. Rivera hopes students “will look at people with disabilities with a new perspective, instead of looking down on them because everyone has talents, abilities and weaknesses.” In order for students to contribute to society in a positive way, compassion is necessary. The assembly challenged students to be more compassionate, especially to those with disabilities.
