DeKALB | NIU students will pledge to amend their vocabularies in Gabel Hall Wednesday as part of Best Buddies’ “Spread the Word to End the Word” event.

The national event is designed to help people eliminate the word “retard” from everyday conversation, said Doug Kocur, junior special education major and college buddy director for Best Buddies NIU.

“You never know who’s around and who it will affect,” Kocur said. “It’s about [letting people know] how hurtful saying the word ‘retard’ really is.”

According to www.r-word.org , people will sign a pledge reading, “I pledge and support the elimination of the derogatory use of the r-word from everyday speech and promote the acceptance and inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities.”

Kocur said the medical use of “retard” is now removed, and “intellectually disabled” is the officially recognized phrase.

This marks the third year Best Buddies NIU has participated in “Spread the Word, End the Word,” and Kocur realizes change won’t happen overnight.

“It takes time…but we’ve got to get this movement going,” he said.

Freshman undecided major Ryan Galvan said he would take the time to visit Gabel Hall.

“I can understand why some people might be offended by that word,” he said. “I plan on signing the pledge.”

Freshman business major Larry Chwalisz said he also planned on signing the pledge.

“It’s an outdated and offensive word,” he said. “It’s impossible to know whose life has been affected by intellectual disability, so it’s best to just not say it.”

Kocur said the movement has gleaned national attention and support, including that of actors Johnny Knoxville and John C. McGinley.

“It’s gained a lot of support,” Kocur said.