PRESS STATEMENT
Contact: Blaise Bryant, Communications Specialist
(518) 572-7555•
Disabled Advocates Demand Constantino Remove R-word Passes Video
(Albany, NY) – The New York Association on Independent Living (NYAIL) and its member Independent Living Centers serving people with disabilities throughout New York State are calling on Anthony Constantino to apologize for and remove a disturbing video that uses outdated and discriminatory language toward people with disabilities.
The casual use of the word “retarded” for business promotion is offensive, harmful, and demeaning. Such conduct perpetuates harmful stereotypes about people with disabilities and contributes to a culture of bullying and discrimination. This is unacceptable behavior from anyone, particularly a CEO and a candidate running for public office.
At a time when the rights and dignity of people with disabilities are under increasing scrutiny, public figures have a responsibility to demonstrate respect and leadership. Language matters. Elected officials and candidates must be held accountable for words and actions undermining disability rights and inclusion.
“This is not an issue of Democrats versus Republicans. Anyone seeking public office must be held to a higher standard and held accountable for using harmful language about people with disabilities,” said NYAIL Executive Director Lindsay Miller.
“As the old saying goes – any Press is good Press when you want people to notice you. But there has to be a limit and what these two did with their “Pass Card To Say Retard” video, is more than uncool. It is offensive 5th grader level meanness no decent adult would find remotely acceptable or funny. Nor want to hand either of them a “Pass” for doing..” said Jeff Reifensnyder, Executive Director of Maximizing Independent Living Choices in Massena.
“Treating this word as a joke, or worse, packaging it as a "pass" to be handed out for laughs, is not an isolated lapse. It reflects a broader pattern in our political culture where cruelty toward vulnerable groups is treated as entertainment rather than what it actually is: discrimination,” said Aileen Martin, Executive. Director of Northern Regional Center for Independent Living in Watertown.
“RCIL and our fellow ILC partners' focus remains on promoting the dignity, rights, and full inclusion of people with disabilities. We believe language matters and that everyone deserves to be treated with respect. We encourage public dialogue that reflects the value, contributions, and humanity of people with disabilities,” said Mansoor Shahid, CEO of Resource Center for Independent Living in Utica.
About The New York Association on Independent Living (NYAIL): NYAIL is a statewide membership organization of Independent Living Centers (ILCs), community-based not-for-profit providers of advocacy, services and supports for New Yorkers with disabilities of all ages. ILCs are controlled by, and largely staffed by, people with disabilities. NYAIL and its members are dedicated to empowering disabled New Yorkers to live full, integrated lives in the community.
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