Best Buddies Promotes Inclusion With “Spread the Word to End the Word” Campaign at ASD

To raise awareness and promote a culture of respect and inclusion, the Best Buddies chapter at ISG hosted a Spread the Word to End the Word event on Wednesday at ASD. The campaign, part of a global movement, encourages people to eliminate the use of the R-word and other hurtful language directed at individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs).

The event highlighted the importance of respectful language and the power of words in shaping a more inclusive and compassionate community. Students were invited to take a pledge to stop using the R-word, recognizing its harmful impact and committing instead to kindness, acceptance and understanding.

As part of the program, guest speakers from Accel, a school that partners with Best Buddies to encourage friendships between students with and without disabilities, joined the event to speak about the significance of inclusion. They shared personal insights and helped explain the importance of using alternatives to discriminatory language. Their message reinforced the campaign’s goal of promoting dignity and respect for all individuals.

By the end of the event, students pledged to be more intentional with their words and to serve as advocates for inclusion in their daily lives. Events like this reflect our school community’s ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming environment where every student feels seen, heard and valued.