As the title to this blurb indicates, Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco has signed a pledge to not use the “R” word.
And, no, it’s not Redskins.
During the week preceding Super Bowl XLVII, Flacco called the idea of playing a Super Bowl in New Jersey “retarded.” He immediately corrected himself, and he apologized for it the next day.
Now, Flacco and two of his teammates — tight end Ed Dickson and center Gino Gradkowski — have signed a pledge to eliminate use of the term. The Maryland Special Olympics page has posted a photo of the signing ceremony.
It’s a potent message to folks who continue to use that word casually, typically with a meaning that is different from its actual meaning. Which can make the person who uses the word completely oblivious to its potentially offensive nature.
Sort of like, well, never mind.