I once did an experiment on Twitter where I tweeted at people who were using the hash tag "retard," a word that is demeaning to kids like my son who have an intellectual disability. I got some heartening responses and some nasty ones. I detailed my experiences in the post "If You Ask People Not to Use the Word Retard" and got hundreds of supportive comments — along with more nasty ones. I've always been Max's cheerleader, but that post seriously strengthened my resolve to continue to speak out for him as best as I can to help make the world a more welcoming place for him and other kids with special needs.
