The Arc's Objection to Tropic Thunder 

WHAT'S WRONG WITH THE MOVIE TROPIC THUNDER?
The movie includes a character called "Simple Jack" played by the popular actor Ben Stiller.  Simple Jack has an intellectual disability (once commonly referred to as "mental retardation") and is an object of open derision in the film.  The movie uses frequent use of the word "retard" and other insulting terms to describe this character.

WHAT'S WRONG WITH THE WORD "RETARD"?
It's a derogatory slang word just like those used to demean people of different races or ethnic backgrounds.  When someone calls someone with a developmental disability a "retard", they're trying to hurt them.  It sets that person apart from everyone else and makes them seem less than what they are--a person with feelings who deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. 

HOW CAN USING A WORD BE HARMFUL?
Abusing someone verbally often encourages other forms of violence.  In fact, people with developmental disabilities report that the use of hurtful language often results in open bullying, hazing and other violence.  We're concerned that when movie goers see film stars using derogatory language about people with intellectual disabilities, they'll think it's okay.  It's not okay; it's a form of violence that encourages worse forms of violence.

WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT IT?
1)Don't reward Paramount / DreamWorks for promoting behavior that is hurtful and demeaning.  Don't see the movie.
2) Don't allow people to hurt and demean people with intellectual disabilities in our community.  Let others know you won't tolerate hurtful language or behavior in your presence--not at school, not at work, not even at home.
3) Write a letter to DreamWorks expressing your feelings:  ATTN: Stacey Snider, DreamWorks SKF, 100 Universal City Plaza, Building 10, Universal City, CA 91608

ARENT YOU GUYS OVERREACTING?
We know, they're just trying to be funny.  But most of the time, these kinds of movies poke fun at people who can poke right back.  People with developmental disabilities usually can't, and somebody needs to stand with them in their defense.  In fact, people with intellectual disabilities have been treated brutally throughout history--just because they're different.  No, we're not overreacting.  We're doing the right thing.  Are you?