FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2013

CONTACT: Communications Officer Patrick Baker at 605-773-5990 or patrick.baker@state.sd.us

 Governor Promotes Respectful Language

PIERRE, S.D. – Gov. Dennis Daugaard today signed Senate Bill 26, an act to update terminology for individuals with intellectual disabilities and similar terms.

“A nationwide movement to promote respectful and inclusive language is developing, and I believe it’s important for South Dakota and its citizens to be part of it,” the Governor said. “This change in terminology promotes the dignity and humanity of South Dakotans with intellectual disabilities.”

SB26 eliminates outdated and offensive references in state law like “mental retardation” and “mentally retarded.” Originally used for medical diagnostic purposes, such language is clearly antiquated in 2013.

When enacted July 1, the new state law will reflect more appropriate, people-first language like “individual with an intellectual disability” and “intellectual disability.”

“We have lived too long with terms that are dehumanizing and perpetuate negative stereotypes faced by people with intellectual disabilities – what we call the ‘R-word,’ ” said state Department of Human Services Secretary Laurie R. Gill. “Changing offensive language in statute is a major step toward honoring the dignity of people with intellectual disabilities and recognizing the important contributions of all South Dakotans.”

About DHS

In partnership with its stakeholders, the South Dakota Department of Human Services has a mission to optimize the quality of life of people with disabilities through the programs and services offered by its divisions. Learn more by visiting the department’s website, dhs.sd.gov, and viewing the 2013 DHS Strategic Plan.

PHOTO CAPTION: The attached photo shows Gov. Dennis Daugaard and others on Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2013, as the Governor signs Senate Bill 26. Pictured, from left to right behind the Governor, are the following: Sen. Deb Soholt; Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) Assistant Director Carol Ruen;  S.D. Advocacy Services Executive Director Robert Kean; Department of Human Services Secretary Laurie R. Gill; DDD Director Dan Lusk; Community Support Providers of S.D. Executive Director Mark Bratt; self-advocate Terry Goglin; Council on Developmental Disabilities Executive Director Arlene Poncelet; self-advocate John Hodgson; OAHE, Inc., Director Ann Hoye; and S.D. Coalition of Citizens with Disabilities Executive Director Shelly Pfaff.

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