Soeren Palumbo's R-word Speech

[stormbird08]

I cried. Cried so hard, still crying.

[AliveinHim888]

powerful

[putzfrau89]

there are no qualifications of what is "objectively" right or wrong about people. i believe what you meant was in YOUR subjective opinion, there is something objectively wrong with people with a mental handicap.

and in my subjective opinion, there is something objectively wrong with you.

this was not a speech about political correctness. using retard in the way he describes is not using it as a medical term, and is nothing but hateful. its used OBJECTIVELY to describe something as bad

[Beatiful750]

I cried and gave my brother a big hug for he too has disabilities and to be honest I have been very mean to him and now I regret it. Now I notice why everyday he comes crying out of his bus I notice he has been called names in school because he can't speek clearly that almoust no one could understand him. I love my brother

[Italygirl125]

this guy is my hero.

[JWang94]

@bsartist: They don't choose to be mentally challenged. It's wrong to call people derogatory names for something they can't change, like their gender, race, or sexual preference, so why should this not apply to medical conditions as well? They haven't done anything "wrong." Being insensitive to their disabilities and bullying the mentally handicapped for something they can't help only brings out your own ignorance.

[JWang94]

This is absolutely beautiful, and I cried because I was so touched.

@bsartist: They don't choose to be mentally challenged. It's wrong to call people derogatory names for something they can't change, like their gender, race, or sexual preference, so why should this not apply to medical conditions as well? There is nothing "wrong" with them. Being insensitive to their disabilities and bullying the mentally handicapped for something they can't help only brings out your own ignorance.

[FailBlob]

Look, I can kind of see this kid's point but I really don't think calling someone retarded is really that big of a deal. It's all about intent and interpretation. If my intent in saying 'youre a retard' is just to demean you like saying 'youre stupid', then I don't think that it's really an offensive comment, but on the other hand, if you interpret that as a specific attack against handicapped people then that's also no good. At the very least just be careful when you say stuff.

[mkpaul24]

Tears are rolling down my face right now. This is absolutely perfect.

[Joe55D]

One thing I dont' get, why does he assume that all, or at least most of the people, in the audience have discriminated against mentally challenged people? I know I cannot be unusual in saying that I honestly have never laughed at, yelled at, mocked, teased, said mean names towards or even been insensitive and impatient towards a mentally challenged person. Even in grade school I only reacted to the one kid who was both mentally challenged and a huge bully. It can't be THAT common.

[PapayaDove]

@Joe55D It is very common. I see it on a daily basis when I'm out -- I've seen gaggles of teens and young (and not so young) adults whispering, giggling, and pointing at the cleaning staff at the mall. I regularly hear people of all ages use the term "retarded" to describe objects ("Ugh! my phone is retarded"), people ("Dude, you're such a retard") and events ("That meeting was retarded"). I hear it more than any other derogatory term.

[LTMagic21]

@Joe55D I'm pretty sure you've said to a friend "dude you're retarded" or something of that nature.

[TheOmegaParadigm]

@Joe55D Because he's arrogant. He's obviously an intelligent kid and he's certainly a gifted public speaker, but he's too sure of his words and he's quick to condemn others. He even claims that "retard" is the worst word in the English language. I know of a little group called the NAACP that would debate that claim, and a number of other organizations that would debate them. His argument is widely speculative, and he relies on his own opinion and emotions rather than reason when speaking.

[putzfrau89]

@Joe55D its not really that unusual to assume that most high school students have used the word "retarded" just like its not unusual to assume most high school students have used the world "faggot". both have equally hateful meanings, yet one is clearly not okay, while the other is generally accepted. it has nothing to do with actually laughing, teasing, or saying mean things directly too someone who is mentally challenged.

[bsartist]

I'd like to play devil's advocate here for a second. A big difference between racist, homophobic, or ethnic slurs and the word "retard," is that while all can be cruel and hurtful to the recipient of such a comment, the state of actually being "retarded" or mentally challenged, is one in which there actually is, in fact, something objectively wrong with you. Racial slurs and the like, are based on unfounded stereotypes and prejudices against those who are in reality no fundamentally different.

[PapayaDove]

@bsartist But what about the example he gave? The girl called the boy "retard"? To me, in that context it is offensive, whether it is intended to be or not. And when it is intentionally used as an insult, like someone saying "So-an-so is so retarded.", or "I'm such a retard?". It can be awkward for someone in a social situation when a racial slur is used, but a lot of people don't even flinch at the "r" word.

[mea1989]

@bsartist People with intellectual disabilities have "something objectively wrong" with them?! (If we take your cold, objective view - which I emphatically DON'T - then we have to refute your distinction: e.g., people who are gay have "something wrong" in their ability to reproduce.) Yes, people with low IQs can't contribute as much to society's precious GDP, but they have the same human capacities for love, friendship, loyalty, delight, and, in case you didn't realize, pain.

[TheOmegaParadigm]

@mea1989 I don't mean to be rude, but I think you're thinking too much with your heart and not enough with your brain. I can't speak for the person you were responding to, but I can say that I support an egalitarian perspective where all people are people regardless of what differences or disabilities they may have. That aside, I believe it must also be said that those with mental disabilities do have biological defects, and that within itself is "wrong" according to our biology.

[TheOmegaParadigm]

@mea1989 What are you talking about? Homosexuals don't have anything wrong with their ability to reproduce. Homosexuality does not institute sterility. They can be just as fertile as the typical heterosexual, but a chemical/hormonal imbalance within their brains has caused them to perceive the same sex as sexually attractive more than the opposite, as humans are naturally inclined to (for the most part). That being said, hermaphrodites also fall into the league of LGBT and ARE sterile.

[xbigbowlofpuddinx]

@bsartist You aren't seeing the actual point. The point is that when others start to call their friends "retard" as a common joke it downgrades those that actually do have mental disabilites. If we had not twisted the word to have such a negative connotation then there would be no problem with calling those with mental disabilites retarted, since that is what they are. But what we have done is taken this seemingly harmless word and made it into something that is hateful and meant to harm.

[seilndy]

Is it just me or does he look like Gregg Sulkin?

[722paw]

This is AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!­!!!!!!! Thank you for sharing such an inspirational speech. I cried because it touched me so much. Thank you for bringing attention to this issue

[WHN]

I don't know if I agree that the R word is the most offending even compared to racism/sexism...but I do see where he is coming from, and nonetheless, it is a very good speech. Well done!

[xXMrSnarkyXx]

I pinch myself for not going anhero when I had the chance

[senmo]

Soeren, What a wonderful speech!

I am grandpa to the most beautiful 2 year old boy with Down Syndrome. In these two short years my little guy has taught me more about acceptance and unconditional love than anybody else. I feel lucky to have been blessed with him in my life. I would have been a much emptier person without him.

Blessings to both you and Olivia!

[DavieMcKenzie]

I only wish I had the courage to give a speech like that in front of a large crowd. Much respect for Soeren and a huge supporter for what he stands for!

[biddysmom]

loved it!!! i am the mother of a wonderful son with down syndrome........i know that many people (my friends included) sometimes think that i over exaggerate the amount of times that people stare, comment under their breath, use the word retard, etc... about my son..........but i'm here to tell you that it happens daily and it breaks your heart!!! this speech was a wonderful example for us all!!!  snaps for soeren!

[gramps2matt]

A very powerful speech which still resonates today nearly a year and a half after it was presented.

[dessertdivadfw]

No one is seeking to make it illegal to use the word. This campaign is to ASK people to VOLUNTARILY stop using the word. It is a clinical diagnoses that gets used as an insult. Seriously, think about it, you'd never say, "you're acting like such a cancer patient". The word has been taken from it's clinical origins and is now used by the weakest of bullies to describe stupidity. I think the only people to whom that word still applies are the people still using it.

[1000xoxox]

We are not looking to ban a word... but to make people aware that this word is not benign... that it is offensive and it hurts as much as calling someone the "N" word... and "Sammallory79" A black man with his mental facilities does know when someone calls him the "N" word and that the other person is being hateful, racist and mean.... In most cases an intellectually challenged person is unaware the other person is being hateful and looks through eyes of acceptance and love regardless.

[marcab1an]

You dont have the right to not be offended. The idea that we can ban a word is stupid.

[sammallory79]

then to add to this....in the video on the groups main page they say themsleves that the word makes them feel different and that there families see them as equals. Then this video goes on to say that we are hypocrites for using the words. Ya sure there equals. Thats why you are making such a big deal to defend them....your hypocrites for changing your views to make more sense for how you live. So do we continue to say the word "nigger" because they can defend themselves?

[sammallory79]

its stupid because you say in your speech "on people who can defend themsleves." im 6'3'' 340 .lbs with 2 black belts. For me to defend myself (i am not as smart as a high school kid) i would need to hurt you. Now i would most likely be facing jail time do to the fact that the only way i know how to defend myself against angry words is to stop it with violence (i am a product of your society. And mentally challenged do not want to be labled least able to defend themselves.

[jonlamers]

Good speach and great message, but I strongly disagree on one main point. The mentally disabled are NOT those in our society least able to defend themselves. That title belongs to babies still in the wombs of their mothers. Think about it.

[purpo60]

BRAVO! I am the mother of a beautiful daughter with developmental disabilities. This touched my heart! Thank you!

[jbsmomto1]

very well done, your standing ovation was very much a deserved one!

[waywifer]

You have brought tears to my eyes!!! Bravo!!!! You are an inspiration and your sister is lucky to have you!!!!! <3

[ryancincinnati]

vary good speach thanks for sharing it with us

[2valmg]

What an amazing speech. It is so impressive that someone so young understands and cares enough to speak up, and speak so eloquently. I have a son with Down Syndrome. Thank you Soeren, for speaking out on behalf of Olivia and all people with a mental handicap.

[musicalsensation4424]

This is such a beautiful speech. I know so many who are mentally disabled, and it kills me a little bit more every time i hear someone making fun of them for who they are. It is incredibly heartening to know that there are others who feel this way, and the fact that you have the bravery to stand in front of so many people and tell such truths is incredible. Thank you so much.

[oxolaurieoxo]

Oh my gosh this made me cry so much. its such an eye opener. god bless soeren

[samithomas]

As a mother of an son with Down Syndrome I am ashamed to say I have not had the courage or the words to explain to those around me about the use of the "r" word. Your sister has taught you well and your love and respect for her will serve us all.

[SaraMitton]

This speech is brilliant! I love it! Thank you Soeren for having the courage to do this! As a sibling of a brother with Down syndrome, I feel exactly the same way!

[budrickalso]

"the most hateful word in the entire English language". What an impactful comment.

[sahitchcock]

Amazing speech!!! I have worked with the mentally disabled, and I my job was meant to teach them, but every person i worked with wound up teaching me. Soeren, you should be very proud of yourself. You have shown wisdom well beyond your years, and your courage to stand up for these beautiful loving people is something to be admired. Thank you and God bless you.

[kathydillon]

I am the sister of a man with a developmental disability AND the mother of a ten year old boy with Down syndrome. Soeren, you are an inspiration to all. I know you will go on to spread love and acceptance to and about all people with developmental disabilities!! Your speech is awesome.

[bettyann39]

Soeren I know you don't know me but you should be so proud. I am proud of you. This could have been my son talking about my daughter. God Bless you for speaking up. BettyAnn

[291324]

As the mother of a 13yr old daughter with Down Syndrome who's two older brothers love her just as much as Soeren loves Olivia, I applaud him loudly as I know my sons would do anything for their sister and know she has changed all of our lives for the better. God Bless you Soeren, you have made your mark on the world. Looking forward to tomorrow...03/03/10!

[iwatchandisee]

deep, more people should watch this

[alliesocks1965]

My son & husband do elementary school assemblies on teaching typical kids about how to be a friend with autism and the offensive word "retard". we do this because the word retard hurts all the families that have a child or love one with a disability.......

[heathermmartin16]

To some of the previous commenters: Individuals with Down syndrome have an intellectual disability. It is inaccurate and offensive to refer to individuals with Down syndrome as "mentally disabled," "mentally retarded" or "mentally handicapped." Please consider this.

[esotericaspiral]

What exactly is the difference between "intellectual disability" and "mentally disabled"? I think, at a certain point, this PC nit-picking becomes self-defeating. I think the intention of the speaker is usually far more important than the word choice. Unfortunately, we cannot refer to anything without labeling it, and such labels always carry unwanted associations.

[JaniceEmelia]

I HATE the word 'retard' and I have NEVER used it in an offensive way. It was a term used to diagnose intellectually challenged people in the earlier years, and now people use it to replace the word 'stupid.' That is what offends me most. Intellectually challenged people are not stupid, in fact, they are more bright and intelligent than us 'normal' human beings will ever be.

[TVUsedToBeGood]

That was a pretty powerful video. It really made me think.

[rboston6107]

Nice! I made a speech on the R-word also. My sister has down syndrome and I cannot stand the R-word. Mentally handicapped have the biggest hearts I have ever seen. And people do not realize what they are saying. Good Job bud! :)

[genuinecaligurl4444]

This is an amazing video! Everyday I hear people using the R-word with no realization of the harm it can cause! Thank you for making this speech!

[denbroncos81]

I know exactly where he is comin from. my sister is 2 years old and has severe epilepsy and cerebal paulsy and the doctors have thus informed us that she will

never be able to walk or talk. it appals me how people take for granted the simple things in life that others cannot experience. and it appals me even more how people can make fun of those less fortunate to do these remedial things. this speech was amazing and really inspired me.

[malutkamilka]

I saw your story on NBC community...It really moved me and my family and made us listen. Your words were powerful and intentions were good.

[sndd0138]

if you find this video stupid, offensive, irritating, annoying, or anything negative, then send me a message as to why...exactly...?

[SweetPureCamelliaFlo]

"Retarded" is a medical term.

We have became so politically correct that we're trying to ban a medical term???

Okay, I understand that some people are offended. But I'm disabled myself and people can call me cripple all they like!

It's a medical term, not an insult.

It's only when it's used as an insult, that it's bad!

Also, Soeren doesn't realize that his sister CAN defend herself.

The notion that handicapped people can't defend themselves is the REAL discrimination!

[sndd0138]

this is ridiculous. I can't believe you actually believe this. It just goes to show that the person run by the their mind will always find a way to win an argument.

[SweetPureCamelliaFlo]

What's ridiculous? I said handicapped people CAN defend themselves.

Soeren Palumbo is the one that said that disabled people cannot defend themselves.

Go look up the "R" word speech!

There's your proof!

[AlixG101]

When he says disabled, he means mentally retarded (a medical term, like you said). They don't know! They are unaware! So they can't really defend theirselves.

[AlixG101]

My cousin, Catherine, has Downs. She is the nicest, sweetest, kindest, and happiest person I've ever met, but last year, she was in 1st grade (she was 7). She was at the pool, and some other 1st graders (6 year olds) made fun of her horribly. Catherine was aparently very hurt, but she didn't say anything to the girls. Why? Because she couldn't...what would she say?!

[AlixG101]

She knew she had to say something, but her brain doesn't react as faslty as someone with out mental retardation, an she couldnt speak up. I think you should keep your opinons to yourself.

[AlixG101]

Yes, you are correct about it being a medical term, but people have come to use it as an insult or an everyday word. Yes, some people are offended, and maybe your not, but maybe Olivia is, and Soeren as well. I know Soeren and I think that he is defending his sister. But see, Olivia has downsyndrom, which makes her unaware if anyone is being mean. Soeren protects her and He's helping her. He's talking about it being an insult, not a medical term. It's not discrimination.

[AlixG101]

He loves Olivia, his sister, and she loves him...Olivia can defend herself. She is very capable, but she doesn't know when she's supposed to be defensive. It's not her falt.He's helping her, not being a discriminator. I think you should talk to the owner of this channel, because they would agree with me. Don't go around insulting others. Soeren is fghting for what he believes in...and so would you.

[JeffHulkHemp]

Soeren,

Well said !!!

[rjizzo]

My deepest respect also Soeren. Very well said!

[mrsthielsen]

The best speech ever!!

You - Soeren - did put words on all the hard feelings.

My deepest respect!

Heidi

[gUrAcoX463]

note the removed comments= some ppl dont like idea

[holepunchofdoom]

who do you think YOU are?

ive worked with these people for a while now and theyre like my babies. thats like someone going up to a baby, spitting in its face, and calling it a bastard.

[holepunchofdoom]

this was one of the best speeches i have ever heard. very moving.

[CRAZYPADDY2008]

i used to make fun of mentally handicapped people a while ago but this video just even further more proves how wrong i was its not right at all and i feel ashamed

[cdooley211]

Believe it or not i know what he goes through. i have an older brother with Down Syndrome

[AlixG101]

My cousin does too...and I know Soeren too...so I get it!

[GregorioXII]

Everyone commenting on this video is the same person. Not that I hate the speech or anything, it's quite ingenious, it's just... this is youtube... there's not a SINGLE bad remark about a video like this?

Pretty suspicious.

[AlixG101]

yea there is. read!

[HopinWishinPrayin]

This moved me beyond explanation! Thank you!

[HiItsManderr]

I understand how this is.

The R word was the biggest word in my vocabulary. Till, i heard this speech.

I stopped using the word. and actually it has brightened my life. thank you soren

[AlixG101]

Soeren, there's an extra e...lolz I spell it wrong all the time, and I know him well...so its pretty sad lolz

[naturalsoutherngrrl]

Powerful..moving...touching...­truthful

Well done Soeren!

[moinall]

Really moving and powerful speech. Excellent job and message!

[na356]

At school they started speaking about this R-Word thing

I think they wanted to sign a potention online to tells us to not to say the r word

[jennbmacleod]

Thank you for saying everything that I would have said. The "R" word really does hurt!