The Arc Michigan

The R-word didn't stop being used because something cooler replaced it. It faded because people fought to end it. And now it's creeping back, dressed up as a punchline, an insult, or a throwaway comment, including in shows like Euphoria and stand-up specials. It was never any of those things. And people with disabilities have dealt with this word their entire lives.

In our blog, people share exactly what this word has meant in their lives and the moments they heard it, who said it, and what it cost them. Their stories are honest, painful, and important. And they are exactly why this conversation still matters.

Read their words. Sit with their experiences. And then make two choices: never use it again and say something when others do.

Learn more about how the R-word impacts the lives of people with disabilities: https://bit.ly/42Zth3T

As a parent of a child receiving services through Early On, you already play an important role—especially by participating in your child’s IFSP meetings. But did you know there’s another powerful way to get involved?

You can join your Local Interagency Coordinating Council (LICC)—a group that helps shape how early intervention services work in your community. Each LICC includes parents, educators, and community partners, and at least 20% of members are parents of children with disabilities. That means your voice truly matters.

Parents bring real-life perspective to conversations about services, supports, funding, and systems—and help ensure decisions reflect what families actually need. Your experience can help make a difference for other families, too.

Check out the updated LICC handbook athttps://www.michigan.gov/mileap/-/media/Project/Websites/mileap/Documents/Early-Childhood-Education/MICC/Michigan-LICC-Handbook.pdf