Today, March 4, is the National Spread the Word to End the Word Day! The campaign, supported by Special Olympics, Best Buddies and over 200 more organizations, raises awareness about the derogatory use of the term retard or retarded--also known as "The R-Word."

What started as a clinical description is now often used as hurtful, disrespectful language. Today, students and schools around the country will take the pledge to think about their language, embrace differences in all people and respect everyone.

Families and individuals can also get involved by learning more about the campaign, sharing your pledge on social media, and even getting involved with Special Olympics Project UNIFY. Project UNIFY is a new effort to engage whole school communities in promoting the values of dignity and acceptance through service learning. Through a series of Project UNIFY activities, the projects aims to support educational leaders in their efforts to reduce bullying, fear and misunderstanding while promoting respect, high expectations, and the joy of sport for all students and their families.

A first step in this effort is taking the pledge! Together with a coalition of disability organizations around the country, young people can lead an effort to ensure that all children with intellectual disabilities feel welcomed and accepted in school. Get started at R-Word.org.