The worrisome return of the R-Word
Apr 29, 2026•13 min
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Episode description
The slur disappeared but is once again popular to use on and offline. What's up with that?
Over the past few years, the R-word — a term for disabled people that otherwise left the cultural lexicon — has been popping up more and more. It is the rare slur that goes out of vogue and makes a resurgence, particularly among young men. Its return may also have larger implications that affect policy, culture and how we treat each other.
Disability advocate Imani Barbarin joins the show to break down how ableism can take root in casual conversation, and why words matter.
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Over the past few years, the R-word — a term for disabled people that otherwise left the cultural lexicon — has been popping up more and more. It is the rare slur that goes out of vogue and makes a resurgence, particularly among young men. Its return may also have larger implications that affect policy, culture and how we treat each other.
Disability advocate Imani Barbarin joins the show to break down how ableism can take root in casual conversation, and why words matter.
Support Public Media. Join NPR Plus.
Follow Brittany on Instagram: @bmluse
For handpicked podcast recommendations every week, subscribe to NPR’s Pod Club newsletter at npr.org/podclub.
See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.
NPR Privacy Policy
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