The National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals is deeply disheartened by the President’s recent use of the “R-word” to attack Governor Tim Walz. In his Thanksgiving message, the President chose language that has long inflicted pain on people with intellectual and developmental disabilities—a word that carries decades of stigma and discrimination. Hearing it from the highest office in our nation is not only shocking, but also profoundly harmful to millions of individuals and families.

People with intellectual disabilities are not insults. They are human beings with talents, strengths, and dignity. This careless remark drags us backward to a time when that word was used to demean and marginalize. For many, it reopened wounds they have fought for years to heal.

Every day, and in every community, direct support professionals witness how respect can transform lives. They know that words matter—and that language can either affirm humanity or inflict harm. The “R-word” was retired because it hurt people. Using it as a political jab is unacceptable. Not from anyone, and certainly not from our national leaders.

This is not about politics. It is about basic human decency. We call on all leaders—and all Americans—to reflect on the impact of their words and to choose respect over ridicule. People with disabilities, their families, and the professionals who support them deserve better.

The NADSP stands united with the disability community, without hesitation and without compromise.

With appreciation and solidarity,

Joseph M. Macbeth

President & CEO

National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals