Quade letter: H&W chairman
“Idaho Health and Welfare chairman under fire for using ‘r’ word.”
I read this article and viewed the the conversation string.
It is clear, he used the R word to elevate his status in the argument. He knew the meaning of the word, and understood the use of the word effectively demeans the other person.
To demean another, because of their intellect, stratifies persons with disability into a sub-class. It isolates and does not facilitate an inclusive society.
The fact that he engaged language known to demean the most vulnerable in our society and perpetuate a stigma remains a grave concern to me as the guardian of a person with special needs in Idaho.
As an attorney actively engaged in ensuring the civil rights of persons with special needs, the simple apology and explanation provided do not suffice to allay my concerns with respect to his overall perception of persons with special needs in Idaho.
Yes, I hold the Chair, charged with ensuring the health and safety of Idaho’s most vulnerable, to serve under a higher standard and set an example for others. To accept anything less disenfranchises the very population he is to serve.
Idaho, we can do better.
Charlene K. Quade, Boise
This story was originally published May 20, 2016 at 11:18 PM with the headline "Quade letter: H&W chairman."